The ATM just swallowed my debit card and didnt return it. This was in the UK, close to where Im staying. Any idea if local banks can help? Help SOS how to get it back
Action plan:
- Check your bank app - some (like Chase) let you temporarily unlock the card if it’s just stuck.
- For branch ATMs: Show ID and beg - my Halifax branch once opened the machine same-day!
- No branch? Contact the ATM’s operator (e.g., Cardtronics UK) via phone/website - they’ll mail it to you if found.
- Ultimate backup: Use a digital wallet (Apple/Google Pay) while waiting for a replacement - works even if your physical card is blocked!
PSA: UK ATMs auto-swallow cards if:
- You enter the wrong PIN 3x
- The card is expired/damaged
- The machine suspects fraud
What worked for me:
Used Wise's virtual card in Google Pay immediately
Reported it swallowed via Lloyds Bank's Twitter support (they replied faster than phone lines!)
Got a replacement sent to my hostel in 3 days (thanks, Wise’s express delivery!)
Ex-UK bank employee here:The ATM just swallowed my debit card and didnt return it. This was in the UK, close to where Im staying. Any idea if local banks can help? Help SOS how to get it back
Which ATM? If it’s attached to a branch (e.g., HSBC, NatWest), go inside when they open, staff can often retrieve it if the machine hasn’t shredded it yet.
Standalone ATMs (in shops/train stations)? Tough luck, those get emptied by security companies weekly. Cancel the card ASAP.
Your US bank can’t help retrieve it, but may expedite a replacement to your UK address (ask!).
Happened to me at a Barclays ATM in London! Don’t walk away. immediately call the bank’s 24/7 number on the ATM (or Google "[Bank Name] UK lost card"). For Barclays, they retrieved mine in 2 days because the ATM logs transactions. If it’s after hours, report it stolen/lost through your US bank app to block it - safer than risking fraud!The ATM just swallowed my debit card and didnt return it. This was in the UK, close to where Im staying. Any idea if local banks can help? Help SOS how to get it back
Couldnt access HSBC ATM-it was inside a closed branch.
Why do ATMs inside bank branches shut down? Should let you in with your card!
Tried Metro Bank ATM-got a transaction declined message.