I was using an ATM near my hostel in Paraguay, & 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 BBVA ATM in Encarnación on a Saturday. By Monday, the staff said it had already been destroyed. I had to cancel and use my Monzo backup. Paraguay is still cash-heavy, especially outside Asunción, so it left me stuck. Lesson: only use ATMs near branches in the daytime, and always carry a second card and some USD to change if needed.
My Wise Visa was swallowed by a Banco Itaú ATM in Asunción. I went to the branch the next morning, and the staff returned it after verifying my ID. They explained it was a connection error. Friends also had success with Banco Continental in Ciudad del Este. The process was fairly quick as long as you acted fast. Stick to branch ATMs during business hours in Paraguay.
In Paraguay, ATMs are operated by Banco Itaú, BBVA Paraguay, and Banco Continental. If your card is taken, go to the branch with your passport. Banco Itaú sometimes releases foreign cards if you act quickly, but many banks destroy them within a couple of days. Always call the hotline printed on the ATM. While waiting, block your card in your app and carry guaraníes or USD as a backup.
Yes, it happened to me in Asunción at a Banco Itaú ATM near Plaza Uruguaya. The bank staff said foreign cards are usually destroyed. Best to cancel it immediately and switch to another card. Stick to ATMs inside Banco Itaú, Banco Regional, or BBVA Paraguay. Carry Paraguayan guaraní in cash - colectivos (buses), small restaurants, and hostels outside the capital don’t take card.