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 deliberately, assuming most customers won’t notice or won’t bother to say anything.

A Quiet Scam on the Rise

This kind of petty fraud — slipping extra items onto a customer’s bill — has been reported across multiple parts of Spain. It’s especially common in places with high tourist traffic or where the business operates with minimal 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 distracted.

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

Wrong Change — Another Growing Trick

Another scam that’s becoming common: intentionally giving incorrect change. You hand over €50 and get change for €20. Or you’re shorted a euro or two at the bar. These “errors” are aimed at people who don’t know the currency well or don’t want the hassle of challenging the staff.

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, this scam relies on small, “invisible” amounts. Tourists and expats are easy targets — often unfamiliar with local pricing or too polite to question staff. And unless you’re checking receipts or counting change, you may not realise it until hours later.

How to Avoid Being Ripped Off

• Always ask for a receipt — and check it immediately.
• Watch your change — count it before you leave.
• Know what you’re paying for — challenge anything that looks wrong.
• Pay by card when possible — it creates a clear transaction trail.
• Report repeat offenders — contact your local OMIC to file a complaint.

Who Are They Targeting?

Expats, tourists, the elderly — and anyone not fluent in Spanish — are the easiest targets. But even locals report being caught out. It’s not about nationality; it’s about who seems least likely to question the bill.

The Bottom Line

This isn’t about €1 here or €2 there — it’s about trust. If a business is willing to slip extra items onto your bill or short-change you, what else are they cutting corners on? Don’t let them get away with it. Check your receipt. Count your change. And if something feels off — leave, and warn others.

Local Consumer Rights Offices in Spain

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

OMIC Offices in Madrid

The city of Madrid operates OMIC offices in each district. A few key locations include:

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

Full list of OMIC offices in Madrid:
madrid.es

OMIC Offices in Andalusia

The Junta de Andalucía provides an online tool to locate consumer offices by province and municipality via the Consumo Responde portal.

Find your nearest OMIC here:
juntadeandalucia.es

Example OMIC Office: Alhaurín de la Torre (Málaga)

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

More information:
alhaurindelatorre.es

Need Help with a Consumer Issue?

If you’re facing a dispute with a utility provider, retailer, landlord, or service business in Spain, your local OMIC can help you understand your rights and file a formal complaint. Their services are free and available to both locals and foreign residents.