I was using an ATM near my hostel in Bora Bora, & it took my card & never gave it back. No error message, just gone. Has anyone had this happen? Whats the fastest way to get it back? Any advice on who to call or what to do next?
I had my Revolut Mastercard taken by a Banque de Tahiti ATM near the ferry dock. Since it was a Friday evening, the branch was closed until Monday. By then, they told me the card had already been destroyed for security. I had to cancel it and rely on my backup Monzo card. Bora Bora is very cash-based, so being stuck without my main card was stressful. Always withdraw during branch hours and bring some euros or CFP francs as backup.
My Wise Visa was swallowed at a Socredo ATM in Vaitape. I went to the bank the next morning with my ID, and they returned it within 20 minutes. The staff were polite and said the machine sometimes retains foreign cards when there’s a chip read error. Since Bora Bora only has a handful of ATMs, it was a relief to get it back so quickly. I’d recommend always using machines next to branches here - that way you can get direct help if something happens.
In Bora Bora, ATMs are mostly run by Banque Socredo, Banque de Tahiti, and Banque de Polynésie. If your card is taken, you’ll need to visit the branch during business hours with your passport. ATMs are limited on the island, so acting quickly is important. If the ATM isn’t attached to a branch, call the hotline posted on the machine right away. Foreign cards not collected within a day or two are often destroyed. Freeze your card in your bank app until you know if retrieval is possible.
Yes, it happened at a Banque Socredo ATM near Vaitape Village. The card disappeared without a message. The bank told me it would be destroyed. In Bora Bora, cancel immediately and switch to a backup. Always withdraw at Banque de Tahiti or Banque Socredo ATMs during the day. Bring CFP cash since pensions, dive shops, and boats often prefer cash.