How to Avoid Scams in Spain – Guide

Avoid scams in Spain by learning how to recognise utility and bank fraud in Estepona. Clear guidance for homeowners and residents.

Fraud attempts involving fake electricity companies, water suppliers, and banks are becoming increasingly common across Spain, including Estepona and the New Golden Mile. These scams often target property owners, residents, and international clients who may not be fully familiar with Spanish administrative procedures.
Understanding how these scams work is the first step to avoid scams in Spain and protect your finances, personal data, and property.

Many scams in Spain rely on urgency and authority. Callers or visitors may claim to represent official electricity companies, water suppliers, or banks and may already know basic personal information such as your name or address.
This does not mean the communication is legitimate.

Fake Electricity or Water Company Calls
One of the most common utility scams in Spain involves callers pretending to represent an electricity or water provider. These calls often claim that your contract must be updated urgently, that your tariff is incorrect, or that your supply will be cut off due to an unpaid bill.
In Spain, legitimate utility companies do not request bank details or contract changes by phone without prior written communication.

Door-to-Door Utility Scams

In areas such as Estepona, some scammers operate in person, claiming to inspect meters or offer better tariffs. If you did not request the visit, do not provide documentation, recent bills, or bank details.

If you are unsure, it is advisable to consult a trusted local representative or professional providing property management services in Estepona:
https://www.livingstone-estates.com/services/livingstone-membership

Bank Scams in Spain: What to Watch Out For

Another widespread scam involves impersonating banks by phone, SMS, or email. You may be told that suspicious activity has been detected, your account is blocked, or that you must verify your identity immediately.
Scammers may ask for online banking passwords, PIN numbers, or SMS verification codes.
Spanish banks will never ask for this information. Official banking security guidance can be found via the Banco de España:
https://www.bde.es

Be cautious if you encounter pressure to act immediately, requests for personal or banking information, calls from unknown or hidden numbers, or threats of service interruption without written notice.
These are common red flags associated with scams in Spain.

How to Avoid Scams: Practical Advice
To effectively avoid scams in Spain, always end the call or interaction, then contact your bank or utility provider directly using official contact details from your bill or bank card. Only check your accounts through official apps or websites.
For general public guidance, consult the Spanish National Police cybercrime resources:
https://www.policia.es
You can also refer to the National Cybersecurity Institute of Spain (INCIBE) for updated fraud alerts and prevention advice:
https://www.incibe.es

Property owners who live abroad, rent out their property, or do not speak Spanish fluently may be more exposed to scams involving utilities, false inspections, or unauthorised contract changes. Having local after-sales support in Spain can significantly reduce this risk:
https://www.livingstone-estates.com/services/after-sales

Livingstone Estates assists clients by verifying whether utility or bank communications are legitimate, acting as a local contact for absentee property owners, coordinating with official service providers, and supporting landlords through rental management services in Estepona:
https://www.livingstone-estates.com/services/rental-management
This proactive support helps clients avoid unnecessary stress and potential financial loss.

If you believe you have been targeted by a scam, do not share further information, contact your bank immediately if any details were disclosed, avoid clicking links or downloading files, and seek professional advice if needed.
If in doubt, you can contact our team in Estepona for guidance before taking any action:
https://www.livingstone-estates.com/contact

Final Thoughts
Scams exist everywhere, but staying informed is the most effective way to avoid scams in Spain. A calm, verification-first approach can protect both your property and peace of mind.
For property owners in Estepona, having experienced local support can make a meaningful difference.

Contact us today:

Livingstone Estates
Urb. Guadalmansa, Edif. Salinas Local 7
29680 Estepona – Málaga, Spain
Phone: +34 952 806 417
Email: info@livingstone-estates.com
Website: https://www.livingstone-estates.com

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This article is for general informational purposes only and does not replace advice from banks, utility providers, or legal professionals.