Overcharging Scam at Shops Petrol Stations and Restaurants in Spain

Petrol stations, small shops, restaurants and bars in Spain have long been staples for everyday convenience — but more customers are reporting a worrying trend: being quietly overcharged for items they never bought. In some cases, staff are consuming the items themselves or adding things to your bill that never hit your table — and you're the one paying for it.

You might stop for fuel, grab a drink, or enjoy a quick tapa — only to later spot something dodgy on your receipt. An extra item, a higher price, or a drink you never ordered. It’s often dismissed as a mistake, but growing reports suggest some businesses are doing this on purpose, assuming most customers won’t notice or won’t bother to say anything.

A quiet scam that's on the rise

This kind of petty fraud — slipping extra items onto a customer’s bill — has been reported across different parts of Spain. It’s especially common in places with high tourist traffic or where the business operates with little oversight. Some staff consume snacks or drinks during their shift and cover the cost by adding them to your bill. Others simply tack on a few extras when they think you’re not paying attention.

It’s a deliberate tactic, not a clumsy mistake. And the more people who ignore it, the bolder they get.

But it doesn't stop there...

Another trick that’s becoming all too common? Giving the wrong change — on purpose. Handing over a €50 and getting change for €20. Or being shorted a euro or two at the bar. It’s targeted at people who are distracted, don’t know the currency well, or just don’t want the hassle of complaining.

Why it works

Whether it’s €1 added at the bar, a few euros on a restaurant tab, or snacks you never bought at a corner shop, the scam relies on small, “invisible” amounts. Tourists and expats are the easiest targets — often unfamiliar with local pricing or too polite to cause a fuss. And unless you’re double-checking receipts or doing the mental maths, you probably won’t realise it’s happened until you’re long gone.

How to avoid being ripped off

• Always ask for a receipt — and check it straight away. Don’t let them throw it in the bin before you’ve seen it.
• Watch your change — count it before you leave. If it’s wrong, say something immediately and don’t back down.
• Know what you’re paying for — if something looks off, challenge it there and then. You’re not being rude, you’re protecting your money.
• Pay by card if possible — it creates a paper trail and gives you more control over disputes.
• Report it — if the same business does this more than once, report them to your local Oficina Municipal de Información al Consumidor (OMIC). They rely on silence — don’t give it to them.

Who are they targeting?

Expats, tourists, the elderly — and anyone not fluent in Spanish — are prime targets. Especially in busy restaurants, beach bars, petrol stations or local shops. But even locals have reported being stung. It’s not about nationality — it’s about being an easy mark.

The bottom line

This isn’t about €1 here or €2 there — it’s about trust. If a business is willing to quietly rob you over small change or snacks, what else are they cutting corners on? Don’t let them get away with it. Watch your receipts. Watch your change. And if they’re dodgy — walk away and tell others.

Local consumer rights offices in Spain

If you’re living in Spain and need support with a consumer dispute or want to better understand your rights as a customer, the Oficina Municipal de Información al Consumidor (OMIC) is your go-to public resource. These local offices provide free advice, mediate complaints, and help residents resolve issues with businesses.

Below is a list of example OMIC offices in key regions across Spain, along with information on how to locate more near you.

OMIC Offices in Madrid

The city of Madrid operates OMIC offices in each of its districts. Here are a few key locations:

• Central OMIC
  Address: Calle Príncipe de Vergara 140, 28002 Madrid
  Email: omiccentral@madrid.es
  Phone: 010 (or +34 914 800 010 from outside Madrid)
• Arganzuela District
  Address: Paseo de la Chopera 10, 28045 Madrid
  Email: omicarganzuela@madrid.es
• Barajas District
  Address: Plaza Mercurio 1, 28042 Madrid
  Email: omicbarajas@madrid.es

You can view the complete list of OMIC offices in Madrid by visiting the official municipal website: madrid.es

OMIC Offices in Andalusia

The Junta de Andalucía maintains a regional tool to help residents find OMIC offices by province and municipality. This resource is available through the Consumo Responde platform.

You can access the search tool here: juntadeandalucia.es

Example OMIC Office: Alhaurín de la Torre (Málaga)

• Address: Plaza Alcalde Antonio Vega González S/N, 29130 Alhaurín de la Torre
• Email: omic@alhaurindelatorre.es
• Phone: 952 41 71 50 / 51
• Opening Hours: 11:00 to 14:00
  (July and August: 11:00 to 13:30)

More details on this office can be found at the official municipal website: alhaurindelatorre.es

Need Help with a Consumer Issue?

If you’re facing a dispute with a utility company, retail business, landlord, or service provider in Spain, your local OMIC can help you understand your rights and take action. Services are free and designed to support both Spanish nationals and foreign residents.