Fake Police and Fake Touurists and other Madrid, Spain Tourist Trap Tips

Madrid is beautiful but beware of cons. There for 4 days and got approached twice, once at Atocha area and once near Plaza Mayor, both in full daylight - but woken up saw potential cons in Retiro and in far off Toledo - just be aware! Con 1 near Atocha, approached by plain-clothed policeman with gimmicky hidden police radio, and asked to co-operate in questioning and what have I got in pockets, he had partner posing as another tourist/local also being questioned - luckily something spooked them and they walked off. Con 2 near Mayor, 3 women 'Tourists' approached with map in hand asking directions - while map in face and distraction by 2 others,ones hidden hand went to my pocket, which I felt and removed forcibly with a few swear words - they turned and walked away (didn't shout for police in case of getting overwhelmed by fakes). Saw fake police badges openly on sale in a shop near Mayor!! Just keep you wits about you and try and not act like tourists.

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At Least Do This: If approached by a policeman, unless they are in uniform / you have just thrown a brick through the jeweller's window, and asked to do anything, insist on doing it at the main police station (Find out where at least one is in each City, before you arrive) - obviously do not go with him in his car! Spain is not a police-state, so if he objects you do the same loudly!!!