Question 1

What is the "ATM "Out of Order" Currency Swap Trick" scam in Aruba?

Accepted Answer

Near high-traffic tourist zones, scammers place "out of order" signs on legitimate bank ATMs to redirect tourists to a nearby private machine that charges excessive fees or uses an unfavorable exchange rate. The private machine may also skim card data. If an ATM shows an out-of-order sign, walk to the next bank branch rather than using a nearby alternative machine. Use ATMs inside banks or large hotel lobbies only. Aruba's Banco di Caribe and RBC Royal Bank machines on the main strip are generally reliable.

Question 2

What is the "Casino Chip Exchange Shortchanging" scam in Aruba?

Accepted Answer

Aruba's hotel strip casinos see a small number of reports of chip exchange shortchanging, where cashiers miscounted change is given on large cash-to-chip conversions, particularly at busy times. The confusion of currency (Aruban florin vs. USD) is exploited to obscure the error. Always count your chips and cash change before leaving the cashier window, regardless of the queue behind you. Exchange money at your hotel front desk or a bank before entering the casino, and keep transactions in a single currency to make counting easier.

Money & ATM Scams in Aruba

ATM "Out of Order" Currency Swap Trick

Casino Chip Exchange Shortchanging

Experienced a scam here?