Beware of the Latest ATM Scam Targeting Foreigners in Budapest

Hey there, folks! It’s time to talk about a sneaky new scam that’s been making the rounds in Budapest, specifically targeting unsuspecting foreigners at ATMs. The Budapest Police Headquarters has recently shed light on this troubling trend, and it’s crucial that everyone stays vigilant.

Picture this: you’re a foreign tourist, excited to explore the vibrant streets of Budapest’s 7th district. You head to an ATM on Kazinczy Street to withdraw some cash for your adventures. Suddenly, a seemingly helpful individual approaches you, offering assistance with the ATM. They claim that by switching the language to Hungarian, you can save on transaction fees. Sounds tempting, right?

Well, here’s where things take a dark turn. As soon as you initiate the transaction, the ATM screen goes dark for a brief moment while it establishes a connection with the central server. That’s when the scammer jumps in, convincing you that the ATM is malfunctioning. They swiftly escort you to another machine, but little do you know, their accomplices have already swiped the cash that was dispensed from the first ATM. Talk about a sneaky move!

The Budapest Police have reported that these scammers, ranging from their twenties to forties, have been operating in various roles since September 2022. They’ve managed to swindle three foreign victims out of a total of 360,000 forints (approximately $1,000) so far.

The authorities have released video footage capturing one of these incidents, where a unsuspecting tourist in a yellow jacket falls victim to the scam. It’s a stark reminder of how easily one can become a target in the blink of an eye.

Thankfully, the police have already apprehended one of the suspects, a 21-year-old man named Attila M., who was arrested on February 15, 2023. He faces charges of theft committed on a commercial scale. However, the search continues for his accomplices, who can be seen brazenly staring into the surveillance cameras in their black coats.

The Budapest Districts VI and VII Prosecutor’s Office is not taking this lightly. They’ve pressed charges against five men involved in these thefts, with three of them facing prison sentences and the others looking at suspended jail terms. Additionally, the prosecutors are seeking the confiscation of assets gained through these criminal activities.

So, what’s the lesson here? Always be cautious when using ATMs, especially in unfamiliar places. If someone approaches you offering unsolicited assistance, politely decline and trust your instincts. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

Stay sharp out there, everyone. Budapest is a beautiful city with so much to offer, but it’s important to remain vigilant against those who seek to exploit unsuspecting visitors. Let’s work together to spread awareness and prevent more people from falling victim to these cunning ATM scams.