Doorstep scam warning in Spain: fake officials asking for fingerprints

Expats living in Spain have been warned about a convincing doorstep scam where individuals posing as government officials approach residents for personal information, photographs or fingerprints. According to a message circulating widely on social media and WhatsApp, the imposters claim to be from Spain’s National Statistics Institute (INE) and say they need to verify residents' identification for an upcoming census.

The alleged officials may carry laptops, biometric equipment, paperwork and identification badges to make the operation appear legitimate. However, a fact-checking organisation in Spain called Newtral has found no evidence of a recent police alert regarding this specific method of scam. Similar warnings have been shared in other countries as well.

Regardless of whether the warning is genuine or a hoax, the recommended course of action is to contact the organisation directly using an official phone number or website to verify the legitimacy of the visit. If you suspect someone is attempting to fraudulently obtain your personal information, report it to the Policia Nacional or Guardia Civil.

For British and other foreign residents who are not familiar with Spanish government departments, the simplest and safest guideline is to close the door and verify the visitor's identity before providing any personal information.