Scam in MalaysiaCards and ATMs
ATM currency conversion markup in Malaysia
How it works
The ATM offers to convert the withdrawal into your home currency. Its exchange rate includes a markup, making the withdrawal more expensive.
Warning signs
- The screen asks whether to convert into your home currency.
- The ATM offers its own exchange rate for the withdrawal.
How to avoid it
- Decline the ATM's currency conversion.
- Choose to be charged in Malaysian ringgit.
- Read each screen before confirming.
If it happens to you
- Put safety first. Move to a busy, secure place. Do not chase a thief or fight over valuables.
- Call 999 if you are in immediate danger or need emergency help.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about unauthorised payments.
- Save receipts, messages, booking details and transaction records. Write down the time, place and any vehicle details.
- Report theft, robbery or fraud to the police. Ask for a copy or reference number for the report.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate about replacement documents.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the aTM currency conversion markup scam in Malaysia?
The ATM offers to convert the withdrawal into your home currency. Its exchange rate includes a markup, making the withdrawal more expensive.
How can I spot it early?
The screen asks whether to convert into your home currency. The ATM offers its own exchange rate for the withdrawal.
How do I avoid aTM currency conversion markup in Malaysia?
Decline the ATM's currency conversion. Choose to be charged in Malaysian ringgit. Read each screen before confirming.
Where in Malaysia does this happen?
ATMs offering conversion into your home currency, including Euronet machines.
How much can it cost me?
The conversion markup is often 4–14%.
How common is this scam in Malaysia?
Common. Malaysia is generally safe for visitors. The main risks are taxi overcharging, pickpocketing, bag snatching and dishonest sellers. Less common traps include fake police checks and friendly invitations that lead to a poker scam.
Are there similar scams in Malaysia?
Yes: high ATM withdrawal fees, credit card and online shopping fraud.
Who can I report it to?
Emergency services: call 999 if there is immediate danger, serious injury or another emergency. Police: go to a police station to report theft, robbery or fraud. Bring any evidence and ask for a report reference or copy. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact channel to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Taxi operator or booking service: report a fare dispute or unsafe driver through the operator's official complaint channel. Include your receipt, trip details and vehicle information. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is lost or stolen and you need replacement travel documents. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep the police report, receipts and evidence of your loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in Malaysia?
Central emergency number: 999.
Reviewed by @snuck