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AI Voice Scam Alert Spain

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Watch out for suspicious calls: Scammers in Spain are using unknown numbers and AI technology to impersonate your loved ones. Credit : tete_escape, Shutterstock

Why family codewords are your best defence against phone scams

It’s a story that’s becoming all too familiar: your phone buzzes, and there’s a WhatsApp or SMS message from a “loved one” urgently asking for money, or you receive a call from what sounds exactly like your child or your partner. But here’s the catch — it’s not them. With the rise of artificial intelligence, scammers are now able to clone voices and send highly convincing messages pretending to be someone close to you.

Recognising how convincing these new scams have become, Spain’s Policía Nacional is now urging families to fight back with a tactic as simple as it is effective: a secret family codeword.

How scammers use AI voice cloning to imitate your family

In the past, scammers had to rely on impersonal phishing emails or clumsy phone calls. Now, with just a short audio sample from social media or a voicemail, fraudsters can use AI to recreate the voice of your mum, dad, or best friend. They’ll contact you in a moment of stress — maybe saying they’ve lost their phone, are in trouble, or need money urgently.

These scams often start with a believable story, but can quickly escalate. You might be asked to transfer money, reveal personal details, or click a dodgy link. By the time you realise it wasn’t really your family member, it’s too late.

Setting up a secret code: Simple steps that could save you

So, how do you stop yourself from falling into the trap? The Policía Nacional’s advice is refreshingly practical: agree a secret codeword with your closest circle — something only your real loved ones would know. It could be the name of your first pet, the place you went on your last holiday together, or even the title of your childhood favourite song.

When you receive a suspicious message or call, especially one asking for money or sensitive information, ask for the codeword. If the person can’t provide it, hang up or stop replying immediately. The scam falls apart.

“Even if they’ve cloned a voice or written the perfect message, a codeword is almost impossible to fake,” explained a police spokesperson in a recent video. “It doesn’t matter how clever the scam is — if they don’t know your family code, you know it’s not really them.”

Extra tips from the Police

  • Don’t overshare on social media: Fraudsters gather information from your public posts.
  • Be sceptical of urgency: Scammers want you to act before you think.
  • Talk to your family: Make sure everyone knows the codeword and what to do.

Criminals are getting smarter, but you don’t have to make it easy for them. Taking five minutes to set up a secret family code could save you a fortune — and a lot of heartache. Share the tip, and help your friends and family stay one step ahead.

Stay tuned with Euro Weekly News for more news from Spain

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Inma’s Racing Heart

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Inma from Archez. Credit: Locos de la Colina Facebook page.

Sometimes, running means more than running.

In just six months, Inma from Archez (a small village in the Axarquia region) has completed over 50 races across Andalusia. But what truly makes Inma stand out is her total commitment to causes that matter.

Inma wears her club’s colours (Locos de la Colina club in the Axarquia region) not just for sport, but for solidarity. Over the past few months, she’s taken part in charity races supporting cancer patients, working with organisations that fund research and assist families through the toughest of times.

She’s run for children with special needs, helping raise money for therapies and treatments to improve their quality of life. And she’s supported awareness for rare diseases, giving voice and visibility to families too often left unheard.

Each race she’s run has symbolised far more than participation, far more than endurance and competitive spirit. We’re talking about hope, compassion, and the belief that sport can be a powerful force for doing good.

All in all, Inma reminds us that running isn’t just about crossing finish lines: it’s about showing up for others. Empathy can go hand in hand with a passion for sport — that’s the real lesson.

And that makes Inma not just a runner, but also an inspiration.

Read here more news from Axarquia.

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Bazlama Buzz: Mayor Hooked On Turkish Cuisine

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Mayor of Estepona José María Garcia Urbano cuts the red tape again at Bazlama. Credit: EWN

Bazlama officially swung open its doors on Tuesday, July 15, to a huge crowd of fascinated new diners, eager to see what all the buzz was about. Mayor of Estepona, José María Garcia Urbano, was among them to cut the ceremonial ribbon and try out the flatbreads everyone has been talking about.

Co-Founder Sarah Moravvej explained, “We came across Bazlama in Istanbul and loved the food, the experience, and the whole concept. We felt it was something which was missing on the Costa del Sol.”

“Turkish food and hospitality are exceptional and deserve to be better known, and the Bazlama brand is amazing at transporting you to Turkey and delivering not just delicious Turkish cuisine but a true cultural experience.”

Bazlama is a family business, run by a mother-and-daughter team, drawing from recipes passed down through generations. They work hard to retain family values and make every guest feel like they are being welcomed into a traditional Turkish home. The love and generosity you feel at Bazlama restaurants is something special.

The breads that impressed José Maria García Urbano.
The breads that impressed José Maria García Urbano.
Credit: EWN

The new restaurant in El Paraiso, located on Calle Isla Verde 12, Benamara, close to the Senator Banús Hotel, is Bazlama’s first European venture, introducing its celebrated all-you-can-eat Turkish breakfast to the continent. Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm, the restaurant serves a scrumptious breakfast banquet featuring traditional breads, cheeses, jams, hot dishes like menemen scrambled eggs, and the signature bazlama flatbread. Guests can also enjoy gozleme and mezze set menus, paired with Turkish tea, drinks, and cocktails. The authentic flavours, made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including organic produce from a small family farm in Estepona, which create a healthy and delicious dining experience.

The opening has brought 19 new jobs to the area, with plans for more as Bazlama extends its opening hours. Committed to sustainability, the restaurant plans to implement a waste-free model by partnering with local charities. Since its inception in Cesme, Turkey, in 1992, Bazlama has expanded to six locations in Turkey and one in Dubai, with a London branch on the cards for the near future. The Costa del Sol outpost is a big step in the brand’s international expansion, offering a cultural adventure through dishes like acuka spicy red pepper spread and stuffed gozleme.

Sarah and her sister Salmeh have joined the brand’s strong female leadership, and they invite guests to experience Turkish hospitality and become part of the Bazlama family. To reserve a table, call 951 830 136 or follow @bazlamakahvalti on Instagram and Facebook.

José María García Urbano, mayor of Estepona comes to Bazlama.
José María García Urbano, mayor of Estepona comes to Bazlama.
Credit: EWN

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Claptone’s Daytime Dance Fever At Nikki Beach

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Claptone & Mood Sax at Nikki Beach. Credit NB

Nikki Beach Marbella has a very special daytime event coming up – “Sol & Sound”, headlined by the internationally celebrated house music artist Claptone. 

On Friday, July 25, from 1pm to 9pm, the beachfront venue will transform into a hot dance haven under the Mediterranean sun, offering a unique experience with pulsating beats.

Recognisable by his trademark golden mask and a sound that fuses deep house with melodic and atmospheric elements, Claptone will take the decks. The enigmatic DJ, who previously performed at Nikki Beach Saint Barth for a New Year’s Eve celebration, is no stranger to captivating audiences worldwide. This time, he trades the dim lights of nightclubs for Marbella’s sunlit shores for a magical daytime set that’s a rare treat for fans.

Behind the golden mask lies an artist who has masterfully balanced mystery with a shining career. Claptone burst onto the house music scene in the early 2010s, and has become a global force in clubland ever since. His discography includes several studio albums and remixes for artists like Depeche Mode, Elton John, and Dua Lipa. As a festival favourite, he has performed at events like Tomorrowland and Coachella. His “The Masquerade” events, which have become known for their theatrical twist, have gained him a reputation as a leading figure in contemporary house music.

“Sol & Sound” will feature a dynamic lineup besides Claptone, with a back-to-back set by Dann Martin and Frank Osorio, as well as Stan Courtois. To add a touch of sophistication, Mood Sax will deliver a live saxophone performance, giving the day a fresh, elegant feel. It’s said the the beach club will be adorned with golden decoration and shimmering spheres, reflecting the warm tones of the sunset.

Nikki Beach Marbella remains a top destination for those seeking the best in house music, an exclusive atmosphere, and a prime location by the Mediterranean. The venue’s summer lineup is impressive, with upcoming performances by artists like Milk & Sugar on August 1 and David Penn on August 8, and with weekly events such as Catch Us Dancing! and Sun to Sea.

On July 25, “Sol & Sound” invites everyone to dance, relax, and soak up the unique energy of Claptone under the sun. Beds and tables can be booked at nikkibeach.com/marbella for this unmissable daytime party.

Nikki Beach is at Carretera de Cádiz, km 192, Marbella.

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