The ATM just swallowed my debit card and didnt return it. This was in Pakistan, close to where Im staying. Any idea if local banks can help? Help SOS how to get it back
I had my Revolut Mastercard taken by a UBL ATM in Lahore late at night. By the next day, the staff said it had already been destroyed. I had to cancel and rely on my Wise backup. Pakistan is extremely cash-heavy in smaller towns and markets, so losing my card was stressful. Best advice: only withdraw at major bank branches during working hours and always carry two cards.
My Monzo Visa was swallowed by an HBL ATM in Islamabad. I went into the branch the next morning, and after showing my passport, they returned it within 45 minutes. Staff explained it was a reader error. A friend also got their Wise card back from Standard Chartered in Karachi. If you use ATMs inside branches during business hours, recovery is possible in Pakistan.
In Pakistan, the main ATMs are run by HBL (Habib Bank), MCB, UBL, and Standard Chartered. If your card is captured, go to the branch with your passport. Some banks may return it, but foreign cards are often destroyed quickly. Always call the hotline printed on the ATM immediately. Pakistan is very cash-based, so keep rupees handy while you sort things out.
My debit card was swallowed by a HBL (Habib Bank Limited) ATM in Karachi near Saddar. The machine went offline mid-transaction. I went into the branch the next morning, and they confirmed only account holders could retrieve cards. Foreign cards are usually destroyed. I blocked mine with my UK bank right away. Pakistan is still very cash-dependent, especially at smaller restaurants and local shops, so always carry rupees. ATMs can be hit-and-miss, and international travelers should keep multiple options like a backup Visa or dollars to exchange at money changers in places like Tariq Road.