Question 1

What is the "ATM Skimming at Hosapete ATMs" scam in Hampi?

Accepted Answer

The nearest ATMs to Hampi are in Hosapete town, 13 km away. Card skimming devices have been reported on standalone ATMs near Hosapete bus stand and on some machines inside petrol station forecourts. Travellers who withdraw cash here and then notice fraudulent charges 1-3 days later are a known pattern reported by guesthouses in the Hampi Bazaar area. Use ATMs inside bank branches rather than standalone machines at petrol stations or near the bus stand. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Check your account immediately after withdrawing and set transaction alerts on your card before travelling to Hampi.

Question 2

What is the "Money Changer Shortchange in Hosapete" scam in Hampi?

Accepted Answer

Informal money changers operating near Hosapete train station and in the Hampi Bazaar area offer slightly better rates than banks but use sleight of hand to shortchange tourists during the counting process. A common technique is to count notes out twice, quietly pocketing a few during the second count while distracting the customer with conversation. Use only authorised bank branches or official currency exchange counters. Always count your money yourself before leaving the counter, and do so in a well-lit area away from the exchanger. Do not accept help counting from anyone other than the official teller.

Money & ATM Scams in Hampi

ATM Skimming at Hosapete ATMs

Money Changer Shortchange in Hosapete

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