The ATM just swallowed my debit card and didnt return it. This was in Mauritania, close to where Im staying. Any idea if local banks can help? Help SOS how to get it back
Man, that’s a pain. It's a common issue with older ATMs. I was in Nouadhibou for a few weeks and mainly used my Wise card, which worked fine at a few places, but I always had a cash backup. The local banks might be able to help you if it's their machine, but be prepared for a slow process. Honestly, your best bet is to assume the card is gone. The fastest solution is always to block it remotely via your bank’s app.
That's a tough break. I’ve seen this happen in other countries and it's never a good time. In Mauritania, the local banks don't have a reliable way of returning foreign cards. The most important thing is to assume the card is gone for good. You need to call your bank's international support line immediately and have them cancel the card. Don't waste time with the local bank, as you will just get a runaround.
That's a nightmare scenario, especially in a place where cash is king. I'm telling you right now, you won't get that card back. The local banks will just destroy it. Your best course of action is to go to the bank the ATM is attached to, inform them of what happened, and then call your home bank immediately to cancel the card. Don't wait. You might be able to get a small cash advance from a bank with your passport, but don't count on it.
Oh no, that's a classic problem and it's particularly tricky in a place like Nouakchott. You have a very small chance of getting it back. The local banks, such as Banque Nationale de Mauritanie, will almost certainly destroy a foreign card that is swallowed by one of their ATMs. They don't have the protocols to verify and return it to a traveler. The only real solution is to call your home bank-say, your Revolut or other provider-and have them cancel the card and send you a new one.