Thieves are targeting hire cars, with Spanish police reporting a spike in tourist-focused crime
In the wake of warnings from the Foreign Office about thieves in Spain targeting hire cars, and with Spanish police reporting a surge in tourist-focused crime, car experts are cautioning British holidaymakers to be vigilant of how criminals are identifying and targeting rental vehicles across EU destinations.
Car thieves have honed sophisticated methods for spotting rental cars, making them prime targets for theft and break-ins. Kazimieras Urbonas, automotive industry expert at Ovoko, one of Europe’s largest online marketplaces for used car parts, sheds light on how these criminals operate and what travellers can do to protect themselves.
Drawing on his extensive experience in the automotive sector and deep understanding of vehicle identification systems, he explains the telltale signs that make rental cars easy targets and shares practical advice that could save holidaymakers from costly theft abroad.
How thieves identify rental cars
Criminals have become adept at spotting rental vehicles, and the signs are often glaringly obvious to those in the know. The most common giveaways include visible barcodes stuck to windows or windscreens, rental company stickers, and branded keychains left dangling from the ignition.
“Rental cars practically advertise themselves to thieves,” warns Urbonas. “Those little barcodes and company logos might seem harmless, but they’re like beacons telling criminals: this car belongs to a tourist who probably has luggage, electronics, and valuables inside.”
Foreign number plates are another dead giveaway, especially in popular holiday destinations where locals quickly spot cars that don’t belong. Even the car’s condition can be a clue, as rental vehicles are typically newer, cleaner, and in better nick than many locally-owned motors.
The criminal pattern
Thieves don’t simply target random motors. They tend to follow a calculated approach that makes rental vehicles particularly vulnerable.
The typical pattern involves spotting a rental car, tailing it discreetly, and then waiting for the perfect opportunity when it’s left unattended for extended periods.
“These criminals are patient,” cautions Urbonas. “They’ll watch tourists park at beaches, restaurants, or tourist attractions, knowing the car will be empty for hours. That’s when they pounce.”
Tourist areas like beaches, popular eateries, and sightseeing spots become hunting grounds. Criminals know that holidaymakers often leave motors packed with suitcases, cameras, and other valuable items while they explore or unwind.
Four prevention steps
Urbonas shares tips on how to ensure your rental motor isn’t targeted by thieves.
Minimise visible rental indicators
Whilst you shouldn’t peel off company stickers or barcodes, as this could violate your rental contract, you can take measures to make them less conspicuous.
Keep rental contracts and documentation tucked away in the glove box, not displayed on the dashboard. Employ sun shades when parked to hide window stickers from sight.
Store keys discretely
If your rental firm’s keyring features branded labels, keep them tucked in your pocket rather than leaving them hanging visibly from the ignition when parked. This straightforward measure eliminates an obvious tourist giveaway.
Utilise secure parking facilities
Where feasible, park in supervised car parks, hotel parking zones, or well-lit roads with plenty of pedestrian activity. Steer clear of remote locations, even if they’re more convenient.
When parking, attempt to position the vehicle so foreign registration plates are less noticeable from main pathways. “Paying a few euros for secure parking is nothing compared to the cost and hassle of dealing with theft,” advises Urbonas.
Never leave valuables visible
Keep all bags, electronics, and personal belongings completely hidden from view. Even charging leads or empty carrier bags can indicate to criminals that valuables might be concealed elsewhere in the vehicle. Use the boot for storage, and ensure nothing valuable is visible through any windows.
Kazimieras Urbonas warned: “Thieves in busy tourist zones have turned rental car targeting into an art form. They know exactly what to look for, and they’re incredibly good at blending into crowds while they scout potential targets. The unfortunate reality is that rental cars make such easy targets because tourists don’t tend to think about basic security measures when they’re in holiday mode.
“The reality is that concealing visual rental clues is one of the easiest and most effective defences you have. It takes just a few minutes to conceal rental indicators and hide documentation, but it can be the difference between enjoying your holiday and spending it dealing with police reports and insurance claims.
“From my experience in the automotive industry, I’ve seen how quickly these situations can escalate. It’s not just the car that thieves are after. They’re also after everything inside it. Passports, laptops, cameras, and luggage can all disappear in minutes. The emotional and financial impact is much greater than just replacing stolen items – it can completely ruin a family holiday.”