# Crime trends targeting elderly populations in Iberia

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/crime-trends-targeting-elderly-populations-in-iberia
> Updated: 2026-08-16T10:58:05.000Z. Sources: 33. Developments: 2.

Reports from Portugal and Spain indicate a rise in criminal activities targeting elderly populations and residential properties.

In Portugal, data shows an increase in fraud against the elderly, with 2,756 cases recorded in 2025. Criminals are reportedly using digital payment tools like MB WAY to execute sophisticated schemes. Advocates have also raised concerns that current legal protections, such as Law No. 7/2026, are ineffective due to poor communication and practical application gaps.

In Spain, law enforcement agencies have warned of specialized theft methods targeting seniors, including the ‘abrazo cariñoso’ (affectionate hug) technique to steal jewelry, as well as vishing and smishing scams. Additionally, authorities have dismantled itinerant criminal groups involved in organized home burglaries using techniques like ‘impressioning’ to bypass locks.

Recent developments in Spain confirm these trends. The National Police disrupted two itinerant gangs specializing in residential burglaries, resulting in seven arrests and the clarification of 32 crimes. In Calp, the Guardia Civil arrested three individuals for allegedly isolating and manipulating a 91-year-old woman to seize her assets. Authorities continue to report a rise in crimes targeting the elderly, including false investment schemes and the aforementioned ‘affectionate hug’ thefts.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-16: Lleida driver arrested after fatal car accident in Canal d'Urgell

A driver in Lleida has been arrested for reckless homicide and omission of duty after a car overturned into a canal, killing his 42-year-old passenger while he fled the scene under the influence of alcohol.

31 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/spanish-national-police-warn-of-theft-targeting-elderly-in-castilla-y-len

### 2026-08-09: Portugal faces rising elderly fraud and legal protection gaps

Portugal struggles with rising digital fraud targeting the elderly via tools like MB WAY and legal gaps in protecting senior citizens' dignity and accessibility despite new legislation.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/portugal-faces-rising-elderly-fraud-and-legal-protection-gaps

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Cite as: Crime trends targeting elderly populations in Iberia. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/crime-trends-targeting-elderly-populations-in-iberia