UK holidaymakers in Benidorm have been issued an urgent warning to “watch out” for a prevalent holiday scam. British tourists frequenting the popular European Union resort are being advised to be vigilant of a scam that’s currently making waves across the Spanish hotspot, a favourite among many UK travellers.

Local police in Benidorm are cautioning beachgoers against purchasing drinks and ice creams from unauthorised vendors. These so-called lateros and cuberos are a common sight on Poniente and Levante beaches during the peak summer season, appearing early in the morning.

Despite police efforts to remove these vendors, new ones seem to emerge as soon as others are cleared away. Authorities warn that customers may not realise the potential dangers of some of these beverages, with one example being an on-the-spot mixed mojito offered as a quick refreshment for sunbathers.

Posters bearing the phrase “thirst or not, that is not the question” have been put up. Local law enforcement stresses the importance of safety when buying food or drink from unregulated sellers due to potential health standard violations.

According to Benidorm regulations, illegal vendors could face fines of up to €3,000 (£2,500). This warning follows recent news that British tourists in Spain might be hit with £170 fines if they purchase souvenirs from unlicensed sellers on the beaches and streets, reports Birmingham Live.

Undercover police officers will be patrolling the streets of Costa Blanca in south-east Spain, ready to issue fines to tourists caught purchasing counterfeit goods. From faux ‘designer’ handbags to imitation watches, holidaymakers buying items from unlicensed street vendors, known as ‘manteros’, could face an on-the-spot fine of up to €200, approximately £170.

The mayor of Torrevieja has requested additional police presence during the summer months to ensure these new regulations are enforced in this popular tourist destination.