The ATM just swallowed my debit card and didnt return it. This was in Germany, close to where Im staying. Any idea if local banks can help? Help SOS how to get it back
The ATM just swallowed my debit card and didnt return it. This was in Germany, close to where Im staying. Any idea if local banks can help? Help SOS how to get it back
Important: always take a photo of the ATM, note the exact time and location, and bring your passport. Call the number on the machine as soon as possible. If it’s a bank-attached ATM, you might have a chance. But most German banks destroy foreign cards if unclaimed quickly especially if the ATM isn’t at a staffed branch. Best move? Freeze the card and switch to a backup or virtual card if you have one.
Same thing happened to me in Berlin ATM outside a Deutsche Bank branch took my Wise card. I went inside and the staff were friendly but firm: they can’t return foreign cards due to security policy. They told me to contact my bank and block it immediately. So I froze the card in-app, ordered a new one, and used Apple Pay in the meantime.
My card got eaten by a Sparkasse ATM in Hamburg. I called the number printed on the machine, and they said they collect swallowed cards during the next cash pickup. They asked me to come with ID the next business day. Unfortunately, since it wasn’t my bank’s card, they said they would destroy it unless I came back soon. So yeah if you’re using a foreign card, there’s often a very short window.
The ATM just swallowed my debit card and didnt return it. This was in Germany, close to where Im staying. Any idea if local banks can help? Help SOS how to get it back
That happened to me in Frankfurt at a Commerzbank ATM. No warning, no error the card just never came back. I went to the branch right next to it the next morning with my passport, explained what happened, and they actually retrieved it for me. The key is that the ATM has to be physically connected to a staffed bank branch if it’s standalone or in a supermarket, chances are low they’ll give it back.
Tried calling Deutsche Bank after my card got stuck-support was only in German. Its 2024, they should really have English too.