The Problem
You are trying to withdraw Liras from a standalone ATM in a busy tourist area. Suddenly, the machine swallows your card, or the screen freezes just as the cash is supposed to dispense. An overly "helpful" local approaches, offering to help you press some buttons, but in reality, they are either memorizing your PIN or distracting you while an accomplice grabs your card or cash.
How the Law Works in Turkey
Placing skimming devices on ATMs or using distraction tactics to steal a card and PIN is considered aggravated fraud and cybercrime in Turkey. While Turkish banks have robust security measures and are liable to protect their customers, the legal burden often falls on you to prove that you did not voluntarily share your PIN code or act with gross negligence.
What the Tourist Should Do
If an ATM swallows your card, do not walk away. Call the customer service number written explicitly on the machine immediately. If a stranger approaches to "help," firmly tell them to step back and cover the keypad with your hand at all times. If you notice unauthorized withdrawals later, report it to the local police immediately to secure the ATM's camera footage.
The Risks
The primary risk is a total drain of your bank account within minutes. Scammers operate quickly, moving to another ATM to withdraw the maximum daily limit before you even realize the card is truly gone. If you leave the country without an official police report documenting the ATM location and time, your home bank will likely refuse to compensate your stolen funds.
LetFix Solution
If a local Turkish bank's faulty machine or a targeted skimming attack results in massive financial loss and the bank refuses to cooperate, you have the right to take legal action. We can compel the bank to release ATM footage and file criminal charges against the perpetrators.
