Rising Threat of Digital Identity Theft in Spain: A Growing Concern for Expats and Tourists

As the holiday season approaches, expats and tourists in Spain are facing a daunting new reality: the escalating risk of digital identity theft, exacerbated by recent legislative changes and sophisticated cybercrime tactics.

New Legislation and Data Collection

On December 2, 2024, a controversial new law came into effect in Spain, requiring hotels, vacation rental property owners, campsites, and rental car desks to collect an extensive list of personal details from every adult visitor. This includes full names, gender, nationality, passport numbers, dates of birth, home addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and even credit card data such as account numbers, expiration dates, and security codes[1].

This intrusive data collection, part of Royal Decree 933/2021, has been criticized by the tourism industry and consumer rights groups for its potential to create a massive security risk. The data must be transmitted daily to the Spanish State Secretariat and stored by travel vendors for three years, raising significant concerns about data protection and the risk of identity theft.

Increased Vulnerability to Identity Theft

The collection of such detailed personal information without robust security measures in place makes travelers highly vulnerable to identity theft. With the rise in identity fraud cases more than doubling from 2021 to 2024, as reported by Sumsub’s Identity Fraud Report, the situation is particularly alarming. Forged or altered documents, such as fake IDs and passports, account for 50% of all fraud attempts, and the use of authentic personal information to commit fraud is becoming increasingly common[3].

Impact on Tourism and Local Sentiment

The new law has sparked fierce opposition from hotel associations in Spain and the European Travel Agents' and Tour Operators' Associations (ECTAA), which argue that it poses a serious threat to the privacy of personal data and could have severe repercussions for the European tourism industry. Some locals, who have been battling overtourism, might view this as a way to deter visitors, but for many, the economic and social implications are dire[1].

Cybercrime Trends in Spain

Spain is not immune to the broader trends in cybercrime. Recent scams, such as the WhatsApp verification code scam and fake parking fines, have been on the rise. In the WhatsApp scam, scammers gain access to users' accounts by requesting verification codes, allowing them to impersonate the victims and request money from their contacts. Fake parking fines left on car windscreens also trick users into scanning QR codes, which can lead to phone hacking and financial loss[5].

Protective Measures and Awareness

Given these risks, it is crucial for expats and tourists to be vigilant. The Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD) emphasizes the importance of digital awareness, urging families to educate themselves about online risks and the techniques used by platforms to prolong user engagement and increase exposure to scams. Acting quickly and following proper procedures to report scams can make a significant difference in recovering lost funds[5].

Recommendations for Expats and Tourists

• Be Cautious with Personal Data: Avoid providing unnecessary personal information, especially when it involves sensitive details like credit card numbers and home addresses.
• Use Secure Connections: Ensure that any online transactions or data submissions are done over secure, encrypted connections.
• Monitor Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any suspicious activity.
• Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest scams and cybercrime trends in Spain.
• Report Incidents: If you fall victim to a scam, report it immediately to the relevant authorities, such as the Spanish National Police or the AEPD.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for everyone in Spain to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting their personal data. The battle against identity theft and cybercrime is ongoing, and awareness is the first line of defense.