A new type of scam has set off the alarm bells on Ibiza. Through the social network Facebook, a page called Ibiza Public Transport Pass offers free public transport for six months for a symbolic price of two euros. However, the Consell de Ibiza has confirmed that it is a fraud designed to obtain personal and bank details of users. The fraudulent page features an apparently official message promising “500 smart cards for 6 months of unlimited travel for only 2 euros”, and urges users to act quickly under the pretext that the offer “is valid until the end of the month”. In the message, it is pointed out that the promotion is part of “an initiative to increase mobility and promote public transport”. All this, as denounced by the Consell, is completely false.
How did the fake page work?
The fraudsters used a sophisticated strategy to give the appearance of legitimacy to their site. The design mimicked that of an official portal, using persuasive and urgent messages to lure victims. By clicking on the link provided, users were redirected to a page requesting personal and banking information to process the supposed payment of the two euros. However, the real objective was to collect this sensitive data for fraudulent use. The Consell de Ibiza has stressed that this type of scam “goes viral quickly” and has asked citizens to exercise extreme caution when interacting with unknown links and pages.
Statements by the Consell de Ibiza
In an official statement, the Consell de Ibiza has been clear: “This is false information and an attempt of scam promising free public transport on the island of Ibiza for six months”. In addition, they have insisted that neither the Consell nor the City Council are involved in any such initiative. They have also reminded that any official promotion related to public transport would be announced exclusively through their official channels. The Consell has asked those who have provided information on this page to immediately contact their banks and report the fact to the authorities. “It is essential that citizens are wary of offers that seem too good to be true,” said a spokesman.
What is the price of public transportation in Ibiza?
Public transport in Ibiza offers a variety of accessible options for residents and visitors, managed through the Public Transport network of the Balearic Islands (TIB). Below are the main fares and tickets available:
- Single ticket: The price varies between 1.55 and 4 euros, depending on the distance of the journey. It is ideal for occasional travelers.
- Reduced fare: Designed for students, people with reduced mobility and retirees who meet certain requirements, with lower fares to facilitate their mobility.
- T-20: A pass that allows 20 trips at a reduced fare. It is a popular option for frequent transit riders.
- Tarjeta Dorada(T-Daurada): Aimed at seniors over 65 and pensioners, it offers special benefits, such as significant discounts on travel.
In addition, the Consell de Ibiza encourages the use of public transport through initiatives such as temporary free of charge for certain users, always announced in advance through official channels.
Recommendations to avoid scams
Faced with the growing threat of this type of fraud, authorities recommend:
- Verify the source: Make sure any offer comes from an official site.
- Avoid suspicious links: Do not click on links shared through unsolicited messages.
- For official information: For details about public transport in Ibiza, visit the official website of the TIB or go directly to the Consell de Ibiza.
Citizens must remain alert to avoid falling into this type of fraud, which not only affects the victims financially, but also generates distrust in public services.
