sarabeth

We were in Seville a few days ago. All of the sudden the back of my husband's clothes were covered with brown stuff. A man offered to help him was the stuff off and took us to a restaurant bathroom. I waited outside. He was "helping" brush the shorts off. Thank goodness my husband realized what was happening. His saw his wallet fall on the floor. As soon as hubby picked it up the man left. Nothing taken. Big lesson!! Man and woman couple: do not leave each other's sight and do not not go with someone who offers to help one of you. I think more true for the man. We were VERY lucky. Police said this scam is going on. Hope we helped someone. We were shocked how quickly we fell for the "helpful stranger" since we have been on guard throughout Spain.

Luisah

This type of scam has been going on for several years and not just in Seville. Having your clothes covered with anything should be a warning -- don't let anyone offering to "help" touch you.

Christina

yes, helpful strangers are a scam all over Europe. I don't have anything to do with strangers, generally, and would never allow any stranger to touch me like that or go in the bathroom with me.

yk

Thanks for posting this warning. Even the most experienced traveler can be caught off-guard when something unexpected happens, and that's often when the theives make their move.

nytraveler

This is not limited to Spain - but happens all over the workd - and is as old as the hills. Just one of the ways pickpockets try to distract you. The key is - don't let yourself be distracted - and don;t trust strangers.

Masterphil

General (unfortunate) rule: The smiling stranger that approaches you and wants to be your friend, is the person who is trying to rip you off!

Sad but generally true.