Question 1

What is the "ATM Card Skimming and PIN Capture" scam in Kandy?

Accepted Answer

Skimming devices have been reported on standalone ATMs in and around Kandy, particularly those located in tourist-facing areas away from bank branch premises. Fraudsters install a thin overlay on the card reader slot to capture card data and a miniature camera or false keypad overlay to record PINs. Victims only discover the fraud days later when unauthorized transactions appear on their statements, often after they have left Kandy. Use ATMs physically attached to a bank branch interior or located inside a well-lit hotel lobby. Inspect the card slot before inserting your card — if it feels loose, misaligned, or has an unusual overlay, do not use it. Always cover the keypad with your free hand when entering your PIN. Enable transaction alerts on your card and check your balance after each withdrawal.

Question 2

What is the "Short-Changing at Souvenir Shops" scam in Kandy?

Accepted Answer

Souvenir vendors near the Temple of the Tooth and in the Kandy City Centre area short-change tourists by returning change in lower-denomination notes or coins that add up to less than the correct amount, relying on unfamiliarity with Sri Lankan rupee denominations. The practice is most common when paying with LKR 1,000 or 5,000 notes. Count your change before leaving the counter. Familiarize yourself with Sri Lankan rupee note denominations before shopping — LKR 1,000 (red), 500 (green), 100 (blue). Keep smaller notes to avoid large-denomination transactions in tourist shops.

Money & ATM Scams in Kandy

ATM Card Skimming and PIN Capture

Short-Changing at Souvenir Shops

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