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Common in Malaysia

Scam in MalaysiaCards and ATMs

High ATM withdrawal fees in Malaysia

Euronet ATMs.

How it works

Some ATMs charge high withdrawal fees. This is a cost trap rather than necessarily fraud. Euronet machines are specifically flagged for high fees.

Warning signs

  • The machine is branded Euronet.
  • A high withdrawal fee appears before confirmation.

How to avoid it

  1. Check the fee before accepting the withdrawal.
  2. Cancel and try another ATM if the fee is too high.
  3. Consider a local-bank ATM; many do not charge a local withdrawal fee.

If it happens to you

  1. Put safety first. Move to a busy, secure place. Do not chase a thief or fight over valuables.
  2. Call 999 if you are in immediate danger or need emergency help.
  3. Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about unauthorised payments.
  4. Save receipts, messages, booking details and transaction records. Write down the time, place and any vehicle details.
  5. Report theft, robbery or fraud to the police. Ask for a copy or reference number for the report.
  6. Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate about replacement documents.
Where it happensEuronet ATMs.

What travellers report

Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.

More scams in MalaysiaUnlicensed taxis and airport taxi touts: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the high ATM withdrawal fees scam in Malaysia?

Some ATMs charge high withdrawal fees. This is a cost trap rather than necessarily fraud. Euronet machines are specifically flagged for high fees.

How can I spot it early?

The machine is branded Euronet. A high withdrawal fee appears before confirmation.

How do I avoid high ATM withdrawal fees in Malaysia?

Check the fee before accepting the withdrawal. Cancel and try another ATM if the fee is too high. Consider a local-bank ATM; many do not charge a local withdrawal fee.

Where in Malaysia does this happen?

Euronet ATMs.

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: aTM currency conversion markup, 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.

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