Experts say there has been a rise in ‘switch’ scams at foreign airports popular with UK holidaymakers
06:59, 03 Jul 2025Updated 07:00, 03 Jul 2025
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Thieves are targeting distracted people at the airport
Holidaymakers heading abroad this summer are being warned to watch out for a growing airport scam targeting jewellery, designer items and high-end watches – and you waon’t even know you’ve been robbed. Security experts say distraction thefts and “switch” scams – where a thief subtly swaps your real item with a fake – are rising in hotspots like baggage claim areas, duty-free counters and outside taxi ranks.
And it’s not just obvious valuables like Rolexes or diamond jewellery at risk. Mid-range watches are also being eyed up by organised thieves who strike when tourists are tired, distracted or unaware. Danny Toffel, Managing Director at Watches2U, said many people make the same mistakes.
“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.”
How thieves are targeting unsuspecting travellers
The most common locations for watch and jewellery thefts in airports include baggage reclaim areas, especially if you step away from your trolley or bags even momentarily. Duty-free counters are another hotspot, particularly when people are distracted trying on jewellery or inspecting items behind glass. Outside taxi ranks and pick-up zones, thieves often work in pairs, using the moment someone is loading luggage to make a move on a visible item or unsecured bag.
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.
How to stay safe
Mr Toffel recommends keeping your watch on your wrist or in secure hand luggage rather than in jacket pockets or checked bags. Tourists should also be wary of helpful strangers at baggage belts or taxi queues who seem unusually interested in assisting with bags or directions.
“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 also stressed that most thefts are opportunistic, adding: “Being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables close – and discreet – can make all the difference.”