Stay Safe: Navigating ATMs in Bali

Rule 1: Avoid Mini Market and ATM Booths - Never withdraw cash from ATMs located in mini markets or standalone ATM booths. These locations are more vulnerable to skimming devices and other forms of tampering. Instead, always opt for ATMs located inside a bank branch. However, even these options aren't entirely risk-free.

Rule 2: Bank ATMs—Still Risky - While ATMs inside bank branches may seem safer, risks remain. There have been numerous reports of malfunctioning machines where cash fails to dispense, yet your account is still debited. Additionally, some ATMs, even those in reputable banks, have been sites of card cloning incidents. For example, a Google Maps review by J M highlights a negative experience with an ATM at Bank BNI in Ubud, where cash wasn't dispensed, but the balance was deducted. Two other reviews, by Mark Trichka and Humphrey Nelissen, also report having their cards cloned at the same ATM. Despite Bank BNI being a government-operated institution, these frauds still occur, highlighting the ongoing risks. You can read the reviews on Google Maps https://maps.app.goo.gl/J1bBhznvRz3258Kz6.

If your card is cloned and your money is stolen, resolving the issue can be a complicated, expensive, and time-consuming process. You'll likely need to contact your bank in your home country, file a police report, and visit the main branch of the local bank. Most of these bank and police offices are located far from touristy areas, often in densely populated areas with heavy traffic, adding further challenges to the process. You may have to wait for hours, with no guarantee of recovering your stolen money.

Another challenge is that many ATMs in Bali allow only a small withdrawal limit of IDR 1,250,000 (US$ 80) per transaction, which can be inconvenient if you need larger amounts of cash. Additionally, ATMs occasionally swallow cards, leaving you cardless if you don’t carry a spare, adding further stress to your travel experience.

Rule 3: Opt for Bank BCA ATM—But Caution is Still Needed - Based on extensive experience, the safest and most reliable option is withdrawing cash from Bank BCA ATMs. Bank BCA is a private bank known for its strong security measures, though it is important to note that no ATM is entirely risk-free. If you must withdraw cash, locate a Bank BCA branch on Google Maps and only do so during working hours on weekdays. BCA's working hours are from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday, though some branches may close earlier on Fridays. This way, bank staff will be available to assist you immediately in case of any issues. Even with this recommendation, always remain vigilant.

A Safer Alternative: Bali Cashless - For those who prefer to avoid the risks of using ATMs altogether, Bali Cashless offers a secure and convenient solution. By providing a payment gateway through secure payment links, Bali Cashless eliminates the need to carry cash. And if you find yourself in need of cash, simply pay us by card, and we'll hand you the cash in person. This way, you can enjoy your Bali experience with peace of mind, free from the worries of ATM fraud.

Beyond just cash needs, you can delegate all your Bali holiday arrangements to us. When you book airport transfers, tours, or experiences with Bali Cashless, everything is 100% paid with your card through a secure payment link. This ensures a smooth, hassle-free vacation where you can focus on enjoying your time in Bali, knowing that all your payments are handled securely.

Staying safe in Bali is all about making informed choices. Whether you're withdrawing cash or opting for a cashless experience, understanding the risks and solutions available can make your trip smoother and more secure.