British holidaymakers heading to Europe this summer have been warned about a growing airport scam that targets jewellery, designer goods and watches. Thieves are reportedly operating in busy terminals, taking advantage of distracted travellers at baggage belts, duty-free counters and taxi ranks.
The scams include distraction thefts and what experts call “switch” tricks, where a valuable item like a Rolex is secretly swapped for a fake without the owner realising. Security warnings have now been issued for those flying to Spain, Italy, France and Turkey, with tourists urged to stay alert around major airports.
Travellers have been told that it’s not just high-end items at risk. Mid-range watches and accessories are also being targeted by organised gangs.
According to Danny Toffel, the Managing Director at Watches2U, the scam is becoming more common in holiday destinations across Europe.
“We’re seeing more reports from customers who’ve had close calls or actual thefts at airports abroad,” Mr Toffel said.
“It often starts with a small distraction, someone asking for directions, offering to help with bags or creating a minor commotion.
“These scams are being reported in major tourist hubs across Europe, particularly in Spain, Italy, France and Turkey, where organised theft rings often operate around airports like Barcelona El Prat, Rome Fiumicino, Paris Charles de Gaulle and Istanbul Airport.”
One of the most common hotspots is the baggage reclaim area, where people are often tired and distracted.
Thieves tend to strike if you leave your bags or trolley unattended for even a short moment.
Duty-free shops are also popular targets, especially when customers are busy trying on items or looking at displays.
Outside at taxi ranks and pick-up zones, gangs often work in pairs to spot and grab valuables when people are loading luggage.
Mr Toffel warns that visibly wearing high-end items or placing watches in easily accessible bag pockets makes you a prime target.
“Scammers tend to look for signs that someone is carrying something expensive, and whether they’re too distracted to notice something being taken or switched,” he said.
To stay safe, he advises keeping watches on your wrist or in secure hand luggage, and being cautious of overly helpful strangers at busy spots in the airport.
“Wearing a cheaper travel watch is a smart move if you’re flying into busy tourist hubs,” Mr Toffel said.
“Keep your expensive pieces for secure evenings or hotel safes, not airport terminals.”
He added: “Being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables close, and discreet, can make all the difference.”