Panama Forum

newbietopanama
Joined 2015
Posts: 64

8 years ago

ATM -- little thief?? :=)

8 years ago

Ok.

So, I tried to withdraw some cash from the ATM today.

First, I went to Bank Canal (at Iglesias del Carmen). My card wouldn't work.

Remembering what many people have already said about ATMs on this forum, I decided to try Bank Nacionale, which was right across the road.

And, my card worked.

Then, I proceeded to withdraw 200 bucks. For some reason, the ATM dispensed the amount in 20-dollar bills.

OK, no worries. I took my cash, and........for some reason, decided to count it (I never did this before, because I never needed to). But, once again : people on this forum have cautioned against being careless with ATMs.

I counted it..............and, lo-and-behold : I was 20 bucks short (180 $)

I went into the bank, and, with my limited spanish, tried to explain what had happened. They checked my transaction ( I had to wait 45 minutes while they verified that I wasn't some opportunist who hadn't walked in from the street to try to "borrow" 20 bucks LOL)

Anyway, the checked my transaction, and, sure enough, I was supposed to get 200, not 180. I was already pissed off for having to wait an hour; but, that's irrelevant. What's important is : 200 had been taken off my card, but I'd been given only 180 !!

So, what now??

Long story short, they said "they would investigate", and I should return in a couple of days.

Jeeeeez !!!

Anyway, I'm curious : does this happen often here in Panama???

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