Reasons Why an ATM May Swallow Your Card
When using an ATM to withdraw cash, your card may be retained due to certain issues. This could be a result of system errors or power outages, preventing the machine from dispensing your card as per the standard procedure.
Additionally, if you enter the wrong PIN multiple times (usually more than 3 attempts) or fail to retrieve your card after completing a transaction, the ATM may retain your card.
What to Do If Your Card Is Retained by the ATM
– Check the ATM
As soon as you realize your card has been retained, press the ‘Cancel’ button on the keypad to see if the machine returns your card. If it doesn’t, proceed to the next steps.
You can also try pressing other buttons to check if the machine is faulty and hasn’t had a chance to dispense your card yet.
Pressing the ‘Cancel’ button on the keypad may cause the ATM to return your card.
– Contact Your Bank
Get in touch with your bank’s customer support using the phone number displayed on the ATM, regardless of whether you’re using an ATM from the same bank or a different one.
Follow the instructions provided by the bank representative, including reporting the time of the incident, the ATM’s location, and any transactions made before the card was retained. The bank will also require your contact information to provide a resolution.
If you’re using an ATM located outside a bank branch during business hours, you can go inside and seek assistance from the staff.
Typically, you should be able to retrieve your card within 3-5 business days. When collecting your card, remember to bring identification documents such as your ID card.
Some banks may offer the option to block your card and issue a new one. While waiting for the replacement, you can opt for online cardless transactions or take advantage of the bank’s digital banking services.
Precautions to Avoid Card Retention by ATMs
To prevent your card from being retained, memorize your PIN and be cautious while entering it to avoid exceeding the allowed number of attempts (usually 3). This limit is set to protect your account from unauthorized access in case someone finds your card and tries to guess the PIN.
Always remember to take your card after completing a transaction, and only leave the ATM once you have your card, cash, and receipt in hand.
When you receive a new card from the bank, change your PIN within 48 hours to ensure the security of your account.
Nowadays, many banks offer cardless cash withdrawals using transaction codes and OTPs sent to your mobile banking app, providing a convenient and safe alternative to physical cards.
Get Your Card Back Instantly if It Gets Stuck in the ATM
If an ATM swallows your card, the first thing you should do is check by pressing some other buttons to see if the machine releases the card. Then, follow these simple steps to retrieve your card.
ATM Card Swallowed? Try This Quick and Easy Method to Retrieve It!
Don’t fret if the ATM swallows your card while you’re in the middle of a transaction. Try the following steps to quickly retrieve your card.
What to do when your card gets swallowed by an ATM while trying to withdraw money?
If your ATM card is locked, you won’t be able to withdraw money or transfer funds to others using the card anymore. However, the amount of money in your account is not affected. Therefore, if someone transfers money to this locked card, you can still receive the money.
What to do when entering the wrong ATM PIN three times leads to card lockout?
If the incorrect PIN is entered three times, the ATM card will be temporarily locked to protect the customer’s assets. At this point, the customer needs to go to a bank branch to unlock it.
