Your Security Is Guaranteed While Using a Cab in Barcelona

When visiting Barcelona, the primary goal is often enjoyment. The city offers a wealth of marvels to admire, from the Gothic structures to the breathtaking beaches, and so much more to appreciate during your stay.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that crime can exist anywhere, and Barcelona is no exception.

One particular area of concern in the city has been the issue of crimes and attacks involving taxis.

These incidents can range from altercations between drivers and passengers to external attacks on taxi occupants.

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As reported by the Catalan News, the Catalan Authority for Data Protection (APDCAT) has announced that they have given the green light for taxis operating in Barcelona to install cameras for “pursuing” aggression, as long as these installed cameras are “only activated by the driver in a dangerous situation.”

According to Meritxell Borràs, the head of APDCAT, installing cameras in taxis to prevent criminal incidents “could be lawful under the protection of legitimate interests.”

However, there is a clause regarding the installation of these cameras. The taxi service is liable to inform users through a visible poster detailing the use of the cameras and how the data will be utilized, as stated by Meritxell.

In the report, the head of APDCAT explains, “A system where the recording of the client’s voice and image is not continuous but can be activated by the driver in case of a dangerous situation, would be less intrusive on the rights of users and more respectful of the privacy of the clients.”

Nevertheless, any collected data through the cameras should not be kept for more than a month, and the daily deletion of footage is recommended when there is no criminal incident.

In the event of criminal activity, the footage must be presented to the authorities within 72 hours.

This measure could be beneficial for both drivers and passengers, as it provides a means of documenting and investigating incidents that may occur within taxis.

Sometimes, people are mugged or assaulted in taxis, and having video evidence can aid in the investigation process, especially for visitors who may not be familiar with the local area.

The media has previously reported on the risky situations that taxi drivers and their passengers have undergone, with attacks occurring both between them or from external forces.

One such incident in Barcelona involved a taxi driver who was killed after an argument in traffic in November 2023.

This regulation will undoubtedly come in handy in curbing such incidents and ensuring security for both drivers and passengers while using a cab in Barcelona, ultimately contributing to a seamless and safe experience for all during their stay in the city.