CANCUN, QUINTANA ROO – May 31, 2025 – Heads up, Cancun visitors and residents! Scam artists are increasingly targeting ATM users in this popular tourist destination, prompting a stark warning from Mexico’s National Commission for the Protection and Defense of Financial Services Users (CONDUSEF). The agency sounded the alarm on Friday, May 30, highlighting a rise in ATM fraud that has already victimized unsuspecting individuals looking to withdraw cash.
Cancun, a jewel of the Mexican Caribbean, welcomes tens of thousands of tourists daily. This bustling environment, unfortunately, also creates a fertile ground for criminals. These fraudsters are becoming more brazen and sophisticated in their methods, specifically taking advantage of people’s need for cash and the common distractions present in busy tourist zones. Their goal is simple: to clone your card, steal your Personal Identification Number (PIN), or directly pilfer your funds.
CONDUSEF officials have noted that complaints regarding financial fraud often spike during periods when more money is circulating, such as holiday seasons or, as is relevant now, around election times. This makes the current alert particularly timely.
How the Scammers Operate
Criminals are employing a variety of tactics to deceive ATM users. One common method involves placing nearly invisible devices, known as “skimmers,” over the ATM’s card slot. These skimmers read and store the data from your card’s magnetic stripe. Simultaneously, a tiny, hidden camera may be positioned to record you entering your PIN, or a fake keypad overlay is placed on top of the real one to capture your keystrokes. With this information, thieves can create a counterfeit copy of your card and, knowing your PIN, can drain your account from other ATMs.
Another trick involves using adhesives or small, hard-to-detect objects inside the card slot. When you insert your card, it becomes stuck. A seemingly helpful bystander might then approach, offering assistance. This “Good Samaritan” may try to observe you entering your PIN, or in some instances, actually steal your card during the commotion. Once you leave, frustrated, they use or retrieve your original card and, if they have your PIN, can access your money.
Authorities also warn about criminals who simply pose as friendly individuals offering unsolicited help. They might try to distract you, peek at your PIN as you enter it, or engage you in conversation while an accomplice tampers with the machine or attempts to snatch your card or cash.
Staying Safe at the ATM: Expert Advice
To protect yourself from becoming a victim of ATM fraud in Cancun, CONDUSEF and financial security experts recommend taking the following precautions:
- Inspect the ATM Carefully: Before inserting your card, take a moment to examine the ATM. Look for any loose parts, anything that seems out of place, or signs of tampering around the card slot or keypad. Wiggle the card reader and keypad gently. If anything seems suspicious, crooked, or damaged, do not use that ATM. It’s better to find another one.
- Choose ATMs Wisely: Opt for ATMs located inside bank branches, well-lit shopping malls, or reputable supermarkets. These locations typically have better surveillance and security presence, deterring criminals. Be especially cautious with standalone ATMs on the street, particularly at night or in poorly lit areas.
- Shield Your PIN: When entering your PIN, always use your other hand or your body to shield the keypad from view. This simple step can prevent hidden cameras or prying eyes from capturing your confidential number.
- Be Wary of Strangers: Politely decline any unsolicited help offered by strangers at an ATM. Criminals often work in teams, with one distracting you while another attempts the fraud. If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, cancel your transaction and leave.
- Secure Your Card and Cash Immediately: Once your transaction is complete, put your card and cash away securely before leaving the ATM. Don’t count your money in plain sight.
- Report Issues Promptly: If an ATM malfunctions, fails to dispense cash, or does not return your card, report it to the bank that operates the ATM and your own bank immediately. Keep a record of the date, time, and location of the incident.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Make it a habit to regularly review your bank statements for any unauthorized transactions.
- Use Banking Apps: Consider activating transaction notifications through your bank’s mobile app. These alerts can inform you instantly of any activity on your account, allowing you to react quickly if you suspect fraudulent use.
With a little awareness and caution, you can ensure your financial safety and focus on enjoying all the wonders Cancun has to share. Happy travels!
↓ Join Our Cancun Sun Community of Over 14,000 Members↓
The Cancun Sun Community FB group has all the latest travel news, conversations and tourism Q&A’s for the Mexican Caribbean
Subscribe to our Latest Posts
Enter your email address to subscribe to The Cancun Sun’s latest breaking news affecting travelers, straight to your inbox.