Question 1

What is the "ATM Skimming" scam in Koh Lanta?

Accepted Answer

Standalone ATMs near Saladan Pier and along the Long Beach road have been identified with card-skimming overlays. Because banking infrastructure on Koh Lanta is limited, tourists often rely on the same few machines repeatedly, increasing exposure. Unauthorized transactions typically appear within 24-72 hours of the compromised withdrawal. Use ATMs inside the Kasikorn Bank or Bangkok Bank branches in Saladan during business hours rather than standalone street machines. Inspect the card slot before inserting your card and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Currency Exchange" scam in Koh Lanta?

Accepted Answer

Informal money changers operating from shops in Saladan and near Long Beach offer slightly better rates than the official exchange windows. They use rapid-counting techniques to shortchange customers, folding or concealing lower denomination notes within the stack returned. The deficit is typically small enough that tourists do not notice until they are away from the shop. Use ATMs or the official exchange windows at Kasikorn Bank in Saladan for all currency needs. If exchanging cash informally, count every note individually at the counter before leaving and verify the rate against a financial app.

Money & ATM Scams in Koh Lanta

ATM Skimming

Fake Currency Exchange

Experienced a scam here?