The ATM just swallowed my debit card and didnt return it. This was in Aruba, close to where Im staying. Any idea if local banks can help? Help SOS how to get it back
I had the same thing happen at an Aruba Bank ATM near Oranjestad mall. I marched into the branch with my passport and receipt and they located my Visa by mid‑afternoon. ATMs inside real banks in Aruba almost always return swallowed cards - just don’t wait. Avoid gas station or convenience-store machines, which often dump cards. And yes, freeze your card with your bank while you’re heading over - they’ll help speed things up.
My Revolut card disappeared at an ABNA Bank ATM by Eagle Beach. They asked for passport and withdrawal slip, then pulled it from their secure vault later that day. Aruban banks are generally helpful with retained ATM cards, especially if the machine is in a staffed branch. It’s best to visit as soon as possible. Make sure to also report it to your home bank to freeze the card in case it’s not recoverable immediately.
This happened to me at a Scotiabank ATM in Oranjestad. Called their hotline first thing and headed into the branch with ID. They confirmed the card was retained and sorted it out by lunchtime. Local banks in Aruba typically hold swallowed cards for recovery, but you need to act fast. If the ATM is part of a standalone network, chances are slim. Always go directly to the bank and carry your passport - helpful to show withdrawal slip, too.
My debit card got eaten by a Banco di Caribe ATM near Palm Beach. No beeps, just nothing. I went to the branch next morning with passport and withdrawal receipt, and they recovered it from their retention box within a few hours. Card retrieval from bank ATMs in Aruba is usually quick - especially at major banks. Standalone kiosks are riskier. Also, freeze and report your card immediately through your issuing bank’s app for extra safety.