A British expat living in Costa Del Sol has issued a warning after falling victim to a disgusting scam involving fake bird poo. The incident occurred in Fuengirola, a city on the Costa del Sol in the province of Málaga. Sue Oswick and her husband were targeted while taking a walk by the river when their credit cards were stolen by a callous fraudster who pretended to help them clean up the fake bird droppings.
In a post on social media, Oswick recounted the ordeal, describing how the scammer threw the fake bird poo at them and then offered to help clean it off. It was only later that they discovered their credit cards had been stolen, and an attempt to use them was made in a nearby town. Oswick suspects that the scammer had an accomplice who distracted them while the theft took place.
The ‘bird poo’ scam is unfortunately not uncommon in some parts of Spain, with multiple other expats sharing similar experiences in response to Oswick’s warning. The Olive Press reported that a 56-year-old man was recently arrested for carrying out such scams in Benalmadena by throwing a wet mixture of biscuits at his victims.
If you are a UK victim of crime in Spain, it is important to report the incident to the local police. The UK Foreign Office provides guidance on how to file a police report for various offences, including stolen property and lost passports. They also recommend reporting crimes in English at Foreign Tourist Assistance Services (SATE) in some Spanish cities.
It is crucial for expats and tourists in Spain to remain vigilant and be aware of such scams to avoid falling victim to opportunistic thieves preying on unsuspecting individuals enjoying their time in the beautiful Costa Del Sol.
In conclusion, the story of the British expat targeted by the ‘bird poo’ scam serves as a reminder for travellers to stay cautious and alert while exploring unfamiliar destinations. Being aware of common scams and taking necessary precautions can help prevent falling victim to such fraudulent activities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience while abroad.