13 Travel Scams to Avoid and Stay Protected

6. ATM Skimming and Fraud at Cash Desks

What it is: Skimming devices capture card data and PINs, while dishonest exchange booths shortchange tourists or use sleight-of-hand. Fake attendants can offer to count money and then hand back fewer notes. Being careless at ATMs or cash counters makes you vulnerable. How they work: A skimmer is fitted over the ATM card slot and records card numbers while a tiny camera or fake keypad records PINs. At cash desks, attendants may swap bills or give incorrect change deliberately. Unscrupulous booths advertise great rates to lure customers. Prevention steps: Use ATMs inside banks or well-lit locations and inspect the card slot before inserting your card. Cover your PIN when typing and monitor bank alerts. Avoid street exchange booths with no visible license; use official bank branches or airport exchange counters where possible. Prefer contactless payments or withdraw larger sums from bank ATMs and carry minimal cash. Where to report: Notify your bank immediately and file a police report. In the U.S., also report ATM scams to the FTC. In India, contact your bank and the cybercrime division if card cloning is suspected.