Question 1

What is the "ATM Card Trapping" scam in Marseille?

Accepted Answer

Scammers install a thin plastic insert inside ATM card slots that grips the card and prevents it from ejecting normally. When the tourist's card fails to return, an accomplice nearby — who appeared to be a bystander — offers help and advises the tourist to go inside the bank or call a number. While the tourist is away, the accomplice removes the insert along with the trapped card. Specific incidents have been documented at Vieux-Port area ATMs. A variant involves a person "helpfully" offering to assist with the ATM and observing the PIN entry while an insert or card skimmer is already in place. Only use ATMs attached to bank branches during banking hours, where staff can intervene. Inspect the card slot before inserting your card — a legitimate slot is smooth and flush with the fascia. Shield your PIN entry with your free hand at all times. Never accept help from strangers at an ATM, and if your card is retained, call your bank immediately to freeze it before walking away from the machine.

Question 2

What is the "Short-Change at Informal Currency Exchange Booths" scam in Marseille?

Accepted Answer

Small independent currency exchange booths in the Noailles district and around the Belsunce market area near La Canebière advertise favorable rates but systematically short-change tourists through rapid counting, misdirection during the hand-over, or by giving a bundle of notes that includes lower-denomination bills concealed inside higher ones. Some booths quote no-commission rates that include a highly unfavorable exchange margin that exceeds typical bank charges. Tourists who do not count their money carefully before leaving the counter have no recourse once they walk away. Use ATMs at French banks rather than street exchange booths. If exchanging cash, count every note before stepping away from the counter. Check the mid-market rate online before approaching any bureau de change and walk away from any operator whose posted rate deviates more than 3–4% from the interbank rate.

Money & ATM Scams in Marseille

ATM Card Trapping

Short-Change at Informal Currency Exchange Booths

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