These are the National Police's tips to avoid theft this summer

Summer is one of the most anticipated times of the year, but it is also when we travel the most and are most relaxed. However, a moment of carelessness can ruin the most desired holidays. During this period, scams, thefts, and other mishaps multiply.

This is why the National Police have launched a campaign to advise citizens on how to prevent the most common crimes that can ruin the best days with friends or family in seconds.

Moreover, according to this body, it only takes following a few simple security guidelines to avoid financial losses, risky situations, and unnecessary inconveniences. Whether during travel planning, home protection while away, or at leisure spots at the destination, it is important to heed these tips to avoid scares and bad experiences.

The National Police recommend calling 091 immediately for any emergency or suspected crime. You can also use the free AlertCops app, available in several languages and with specific features for travellers.

Planning is one of the first moments to be cautious to avoid falling into fraud. Especially during these dates, when everyone wants to travel and vacation rental scams proliferate online.

As the Spanish saying goes, "nobody gives something for nothing." That is why the National Police recommend being wary of offers that seem too good to be true. If the price is very low or the ad urges you to book quickly, the offer seems suspicious, and it is necessary to verify it thoroughly before making a purchase.

When making payments, it is important to do so only through reliable platforms, avoiding direct transfers. Another tip from the National Police is to verify the landlord's identity, request the contract, and keep all documentation. In case of problems, having everything at hand will be necessary.

Additionally, a tip that is useful for summer but also year-round: never send images of your ID or share your bank details via instant messaging. Applications like WhatsApp are not as secure as they might seem, and it is putting your most personal data within reach of scammers.

If you are going to travel, especially abroad, you must have your documentation in order both on the way out and back. Check the expiration date of your ID carefully when planning your trip. Otherwise, there may be problems at the airport when boarding, ruining a holiday over something foreseeable. You also won't be able to travel by train or stay in a hotel.

Moreover, there is no need to wait until the last minute to renew documents. The ID can be renewed 180 days before its expiration and the passport, one year before.

During holidays, homes often remain empty for days or even weeks. This is why they are "a treat" for savvy thieves. To prevent this, it is important to leave the house prepared so it does not appear unoccupied.

Among the most important tips given by the National Police are: do not announce vacations on social media, program lights with timers, or turn on a radio or television at key times.

You can also ask a trusted person to collect the mail and watch over the house, especially for markings on doors with small plastics or glue threads.

During the summer, it is also important to lock doors and windows and activate the alarm or video surveillance system if available.

In crowded areas, especially in tourist cities, pickpockets are a significant threat. These criminals take advantage of crowds and distractions to steal personal items. Whether it's a wallet or a mobile phone, they can cause a scare if they contain documents or bank cards, so just for the hassle of renewing them, it's worth keeping an eye on your belongings.

Additionally, even if you don't carry cash, this documentation can be used to commit crimes or even empty your bank account, which is not fun for a holiday.

The National Police are very clear with their advice: always keep your bag or wallet in front of your body and do not leave your belongings unattended while swimming.

Both on and off the beach, do not lose sight of your mobile or wallet. Keep them in front pockets, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be wary of people who approach with unclear excuses or create distractions.