We all use the ATM to accomplish basic banking. Convenient, reliable, and accessible almost anywhere. Still, common to be apprehensive with foreign ATMs and prudent to seek local advise on the best ATMs to use. Playas Del Coco, Costa Rica, was no exception.
This small fishing village did not seem to have many banking options but local expats confirmed the best option was likely Banco National not far from the central and on the main drag. Armed with different card options we arrived.
It seemed logical to withdraw as much as possible to avoid repeated visits and more conversion/transaction fees. The first attempt was with a Simplii card for the maximum 350,000 colones. A Spanish transaction cancelled message appeared while the card was spit out. Was the amount request too large? A second attempt with a lesser amount was met with the same response. Time to switched cards. Again, no dice.
Probably a faulty machine so an attempt with the original card was made with the second ATM. Failed again, but with the second card success! Unfortunately the test was done with a very small amount. Not feeling particularly lucky it was time to quit trying and check accounts online. Worst cast, come back and try in person when the bank was open.
The online account check was shocking. According to it, the first attempt had been successful! Almost $1000 lost right there! To add insult to injury, each attempt incurred $26 in foreign ATM fees and $2.50 in other fees despite having failed. Calling the institution immediately launched an investigation. They could see all the transactions and said it would be corrected within 30 days.
The 30 days came and went and the only charges reversed were the foreign ATM fees. Another call and now it was 90 days for the stolen $1000. A number of local people we spoke with all had similar experiences with that exact same ATM machine. In general, ATMs are not programmed to not post the transaction until it has been verified as complete. With others experiencing similar issues, it certainly appeared rather nefarious.
It took longer than the 90 days promised, but the money was returned. Take what you will from this sordid tale, but when visiting Play Del Coco, perhaps only use the left ATM at Banco National and keep in mind even that may not work out so well.