The risks of the new traveler registration in Spain

Starting December 2, 2024, the new traveler registration in Spain will come into effect, requiring accommodation and vehicle rental companies to collect and store detailed information from tourists. This measure, introduced by the Ministry of the Interior to improve citizen security, has been met with concern from sectors such as tourism and data protection.

In this post, we analyze the risks associated with collecting this data and how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) might be affected by potential cyberattacks. Additionally, we offer recommendations for protecting your personal data in this new scenario.

What is the traveler registration and what data is required?

The Traveler Registration is a new regulation that obliges tourism businesses, such as hotels, vehicle rental agencies, and owners of tourist accommodations, to register a series of client details. The measure aims to combat terrorism and organized crime, although some sectors question whether this legislation is effective or if it actually jeopardizes citizens’ privacy.

The data being requested includes extremely sensitive information, such as:

• Full name
• ID or passport number
• Date of birth
• Address of habitual residence
• Contact phone numbers
• Email address
• Number of travelers
• Relationship between the travelers (if any are minors)
• Payment method identification: card type and number, IBAN bank account, mobile payment solution, others

The legislation requires these data to be entered into a platform called SES.HOSPEDAJES, which will be managed by the Ministry of the Interior. Although the government assures that the information will be used for security purposes, the volume and sensitive nature of the data being collected raise a series of concerns, particularly related to privacy and personal data protection.

Security risks of the traveler registration

One of the biggest risks of the new traveler registration is the violation of users’ privacy. The data requested is not only extensive but also includes information that could be used for malicious activities if it falls into the wrong hands.

The opportunity for hackers

With the creation of platforms like SES.HOSPEDAJES, which store a large amount of personal data, an imminent opportunity is created for hackers. Databases filled with personal information, such as ID numbers, addresses, phone numbers, and payment details, are an ideal target for cybercriminals. If these databases are not properly secured, criminals could access the information of thousands of clients, leading to fraud and identity theft.

Risks for small and medium enterprises (SMEs)

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the tourism sector could be especially vulnerable to these attacks. Many of these businesses lack the resources to implement robust cybersecurity protocols, making them easy targets for hackers. Furthermore, attacks on these businesses not only jeopardize client data but also the company’s reputation, which could face economic penalties if it fails to comply with data protection regulations.

If a hacker gains access to information stored on small businesses’ platforms, the consequences for clients could be devastating. They could suffer from financial fraud or identity theft. The consequences for businesses are also severe: loss of client trust, potential legal action, and heavy economic fines.

How to protect yourself from the new traveler registration

Although the traveler registration is a legal obligation, there are measures users can take to protect themselves and minimize the risk of their data being misused. Here are some essential recommendations for protecting your personal data:

• Use separate email addresses: One of the first steps you can take is to create a separate email address for your travel bookings. This will reduce the risk of your personal email being attacked and ensures that, in case of a hack, cybercriminals will not have access to your regular account, where you might store sensitive information.
• Opt for prepaid cards for bookings: When making hotel or vehicle rental bookings, it is advisable to use prepaid cards instead of traditional bank cards. Prepaid cards are not directly linked to your bank account, making them a safer option in case of a data breach. Additionally, many prepaid cards have balance limits, which reduces the impact of potential fraud.
• Do not share unnecessary information: While businesses are required to collect a considerable amount of data, it is not always necessary to provide all of the requested information. If certain details are not essential to complete your booking or rental, you can politely decline to share them. Below, we show a table that details the mandatory data and those that are not, helping to limit the amount of personal information circulating.
• Verify the website’s security: Before providing your personal data, make sure the website where you’re making the booking is secure. Look for a green padlock in the address bar of your browser, indicating that the page uses a secure protocol (https). Additionally, research the company and review its privacy policies to ensure your data will be adequately protected.
• Keep your software and devices up to date: One of the most effective ways to protect your personal information is by keeping your antivirus software and devices up to date. Updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities in the system, making it harder for hackers to access your information.

What data is mandatory?

Conclusion

Is the traveler registration really necessary?

The new traveler registration is a controversial measure that, although aimed at improving security, also presents significant risks for personal data protection. Small and medium-sized businesses, which often lack the necessary resources to adequately protect information, could become easy targets for hackers, exposing both clients and themselves to severe consequences.

While the authorities insist that the registration is necessary to combat terrorism and organized crime, citizens must be aware of the risks involved in handling their personal information. It is essential to take precautions to protect our privacy, and the recommendations above are a good starting point for reducing the risk of becoming a victim of a cyberattack.

For businesses, implementing adequate cybersecurity measures and complying with data protection laws will be key to avoiding penalties and protecting their clients. Discover the dangers of the new Traveler Registration in Spain. We analyze how it affects the privacy and security of tourists and businesses.

If you’ve experienced a data breach online or need to remove personal or sensitive information for any reason, RepScan can help. Our team of experts specializes in the removal of unwanted information and in protecting your online privacy. Contact us by filling out the form below so we can provide personalized advice and a solution.