Scam in LaosCards and ATMs
ATM cancellation and missing-cash problems in Laos
How it works
There are reports of an ATM continuing after cancellation in Huay Xai and failing to dispense cash in Luang Namtha. These are reported transaction problems, not established evidence of card skimming or deliberate fraud.
Warning signs
- The machine continues processing after you press cancel.
- Your account shows a debit but no cash appears.
- The machine shows an error during withdrawal.
How to avoid it
- Use an ATM at a staffed bank when practical.
- Read the fee and confirmation screens carefully.
- Check whether a failed withdrawal was debited before trying again.
- Keep receipts and transaction details.
If it happens to you
Contact the ATM bank and your card issuer. Record the machine location, time and amount. If your card is retained, ask the bank for help and freeze it if needed.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase a thief or confront someone who threatens you.
- If you are injured or feel unwell after suspect alcohol, seek urgent medical help.
- Freeze stolen or affected cards. Contact your card issuer about unauthorised charges or an ATM debit without cash.
- Save receipts, tickets, messages and screenshots. Write down the time, location, amount and what happened.
- Report the incident to police when safe. Ask for a written report, especially if you need an insurance claim. Your accommodation may help with language.
- Contact your insurer and, for a stolen passport, detention or serious trouble, your embassy or consulate. Ask the seller or booking provider for a refund where appropriate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/laos2023ATM ghosted meA visitor reports cancelling a frozen Vientiane ATM withdrawal but still being debited without receiving cash.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/laos2024BCEL ATM not dispensing cashA traveller reports a Luang Prabang airport ATM debiting two million kip without dispensing cash, with commenters describing similar failures and refunds.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/laos2025ATM did not dispense cash but charged meA traveller reports a BCEL withdrawal charged without cash and describes the bank's dispute process, without establishing deliberate fraud.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the aTM cancellation and missing-cash problems scam in Laos?
There are reports of an ATM continuing after cancellation in Huay Xai and failing to dispense cash in Luang Namtha. These are reported transaction problems, not established evidence of card skimming or deliberate fraud.
How can I spot it early?
The machine continues processing after you press cancel. Your account shows a debit but no cash appears. The machine shows an error during withdrawal.
How do I avoid aTM cancellation and missing-cash problems in Laos?
Use an ATM at a staffed bank when practical. Read the fee and confirmation screens carefully. Check whether a failed withdrawal was debited before trying again. Keep receipts and transaction details.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Contact the ATM bank and your card issuer. Record the machine location, time and amount. If your card is retained, ask the bank for help and freeze it if needed.
Where in Laos does this happen?
BCEL ATMs mentioned in Huay Xai and Luang Namtha It has been reported in Huay Xai, Luang Namtha.
How common is this scam in Laos?
Occasional. Laos is generally a low-crime country, but petty theft and tourist overcharging remain concerns. Watch for inflated transport fares, misleading ticket sellers, money-exchange tricks and counterfeit goods. Prices below are examples from different years, so check the full amount before paying.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, threats or fraud in person when safe. Ask for a written record. Assistance may be limited, and language barriers can make reporting harder. Nearby police boxes in Vientiane: after a bag snatch, shout immediately to attract attention and alert nearby police. Card issuer and ATM bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact channel to freeze a card or dispute a transaction. For missing ATM cash, provide the location, time, amount and receipt. Hotel, transport operator or booking provider: present the receipt and booking details. Explain the difference between what was promised and delivered, and request a correction or refund. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's official consular service for a stolen passport, detention or serious difficulties. Use contact details from its official website. Travel insurer: report the loss promptly through its claims or assistance service. Keep receipts, evidence of ownership and any police report.
What number do I call in an emergency in Laos?
Luang Prabang Provincial Hospital, open 24/7: +85671254027.
Reviewed by @snuck