Scam in CroatiaCards and ATMs
High ATM fees in Croatia
How it works
Some ATM operators charge high fees for withdrawals. This is a cost trap rather than evidence of card theft or fraud.
Warning signs
- The machine is operated by Euronet or a similar non-bank provider.
- The screen shows a high withdrawal fee before you confirm.
How to avoid it
- Choose a bank ATM where possible.
- Read the machine's labels and on-screen notices.
- Check the charges before confirming.
- Cancel the withdrawal if the fee is too high.
If it happens to you
Keep the receipt and check your account. If the charge differs from what you accepted, contact the ATM operator and your card issuer.
- Get to safety. Call 112 if you face threats, violence, injury or another emergency.
- If your card or phone is missing, contact your bank and mobile provider. Freeze affected cards and secure your accounts.
- Save receipts, screenshots and transaction records. Write down the time, location and what happened.
- Report the incident to police. Ask for a report or reference number for insurance or a payment dispute.
- Contact your card issuer about disputed charges and your insurer about covered losses. Explain clearly what you authorised.
- If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate for help replacing it.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/travel2023ATMs without fees in Split, CroatiaA traveller reports finding roughly €5 withdrawal fees at several Split banks and a €4 Euronet fee while searching for a fee-free ATM.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/CroatiaTravelTips2025TIP: Beware at ATMsA traveller reports losing about $50 after accepting an ATM offer displaying an unfavorable exchange rate, a 15% fee and a €5.90 flat charge.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/croatia2019Important for tourists: beware of ATMs!A community member warns tourists about private ATM exchange rates and fees, with commenters reporting additional charges for foreign-issued cards.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the high ATM fees scam in Croatia?
Some ATM operators charge high fees for withdrawals. This is a cost trap rather than evidence of card theft or fraud.
How can I spot it early?
The machine is operated by Euronet or a similar non-bank provider. The screen shows a high withdrawal fee before you confirm.
How do I avoid high ATM fees in Croatia?
Choose a bank ATM where possible. Read the machine's labels and on-screen notices. Check the charges before confirming. Cancel the withdrawal if the fee is too high.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep the receipt and check your account. If the charge differs from what you accepted, contact the ATM operator and your card issuer.
Where in Croatia does this happen?
Euronet and similar non-bank ATMs across Croatia.
How common is this scam in Croatia?
Common. Croatia is very safe by international standards. Visitors should watch for high ATM fees and extreme overcharging in strip clubs, where demands for payment can turn violent.
Who can I report it to?
Emergency services: call 112 for urgent police help, an ambulance, the fire brigade or mountain rescue. Police: report fraud, theft, threats or violence at a police station. Bring any receipts and other evidence. Ask for language help if needed. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to freeze a card, report suspicious transactions or ask about a disputed charge. ATM operator: use the official contact details displayed on the machine or receipt for a withdrawal problem. Keep the receipt and transaction details. Travel insurer: contact the claims team using your policy details. Keep police paperwork, receipts and proof of loss. Your embassy or consulate: contact its official consular service if your passport is lost or stolen, or if you need consular help after a serious incident.
What number do I call in an emergency in Croatia?
Police, ambulance, fire brigade and mountain rescue: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck