In Spanish culture, bars and restaurants are more than places to eat or drink; they are social institutions and gathering spots that shape community life, hosting celebrations and quiet moments alike.
To keep operating as they envision, they must face one of the biggest challenges: customers who leave without paying the bill, a problem known locally as simpa.
A Police Warning About What Happens in Bars
This fraudulent practice has become more common in the hospitality sector and tends to rise in the summer as the number of patrons increases. It can look deceptively easy to pull off in a crowded venue, yet the consequences can be severe for staff, customers, and the business itself.
In a recent notice from the National Police shared on TikTok, authorities warn about the dangers of committing a simpa. The video has drawn hundreds of thousands of views and explains that this act qualifies as fraud when there is the intent to profit.
Penalties vary in severity and can range from fines to as much as eight years in prison, especially when the defrauded amount exceeds €400.
In addition to official warnings, some establishments have adopted concrete measures to counter the problem. The Belgian tavern Dulle Griet, for example, has devised a curious security method: patrons must leave one of their shoes as a deposit. Those shoes are placed in a basket high out of reach and are not returned until the bill is fully settled.
Beyond warnings and unusual safeguards, many venues emphasize practical steps to prevent simpas. Staff training focuses on payment verification, clear table assignments, and prompt checks at the moment an order is placed. Modern point-of-sale systems, visible payment policies, and courteous reminders when closing a tab help reduce incidents. In peak times, managers often deploy extra staff to monitor transactions and ensure every order corresponds to a paid bill. These measures protect employees and investors while keeping the atmosphere welcoming for guests. When a dispute arises, clear procedures for resolution help maintain safety for all involved.
Reports indicate that the threat of simpa is not limited to Spain. In North American hospitality, similar pressures exist where fast service and high turnover meet busy rooms. Owners and managers in Canada and the United States stress the same core practices: confirm orders, verify payment before removing items, and communicate payment policies clearly in view of customers. Laws differ by jurisdiction, but the underlying idea remains the same: deceiving for profit harms businesses, workers, and fellow patrons, and it will attract legal action when pursued with intent.
Public awareness matters too. Patrons are reminded to settle their checks before leaving, and communities benefit from consumer education on the consequences of such actions. The real cost goes beyond an unpaid bill; it can put staff at risk, erode trust in local venues, and create longer waits for others who follow proper procedures. The aim is to balance hospitality with accountability, ensuring social spaces stay welcoming while protected against misuse.