Wondering about ATM safety in Thailand? After spending multiple extended periods in Thailand and using ATMs throughout the country, I’ve gathered comprehensive knowledge about ATM security, common scams, and essential safety measures. This guide will help you navigate ATM usage safely during your Thai adventure.
Important note: I’ve used ATMs all over Thailand, having travelled and lived in the kingdom for over 10 months. Even in areas considered “sketchy”, I have never had any money stolen from my cards. However, there are some things to look out for which I’ll cover in this article.
General ATM Safety in Thailand
Generally speaking, ATMs in Thailand are safe to use, especially those located inside banks, shopping malls, and other well-monitored locations. However, like any country, there are risks you need to be aware of. Thailand has significantly improved ATM security over the past decade, with most machines now equipped with anti-skimming devices and 24/7 CCTV monitoring.
Some locations can be safer, and certain bank providers will offer better exchange rates and lower ATM fees in Thailand.
Safest Locations to Use ATMs
| Location Type | Safety Level | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Inside Banks | Very High | 24/7 surveillance, security guards, well-lit |
| 7/11 | Very High | 24/7 surveillance, well-lit |
| Supermarkets | Very High | 24/7 surveillance, security guards, well-lit |
| Shopping Malls | High | Security personnel, cameras, high foot traffic |
| Hotel Lobbies | High | Controlled environment, security staff present |
| Street ATMs | Medium to Low | Less surveillance, more vulnerable to tampering |
ATM Locations To Avoid
You should try to avoid using ATMs in areas such as:
- Nana
- Sukhumvit
- Soy Cowboy
And generally, just any area that is there for tourism purposes. Take extra caution if you’re close to red-light and higher crime areas.
The most common ATM scam you’ll run into is the use of card skimmers. Card skimmers are usually placed over the card insert hole as an extra layer to obtain your card information. You will also find fake keypads that record the PIN of your card.
These are pretty easy to check for:
- Card skimmers – wobble the card insert piece, and pull on it. If it is loose, or comes off do not use the ATM.
- Fake keypads – try to move the outer keypad section of the keypad, and check for any extra thickness, if it is loose, you should not use the ATM.
If in doubt, don’t use the ATM, there are so many available options in Thailand, you could walk down a street and find another in 100m maximum.
Bank Security Measures
Thai banks have implemented various security features to protect customers:
- Anti-skimming devices on most ATMs
- 24/7 CCTV monitoring
- Security guards at bank branches
- SMS alerts for transactions (for Thai bank accounts)
- Chip-and-PIN technology
Despite these security measures, it’s essential to remain vigilant and follow basic safety protocols when using ATMs in Thailand. The most secure ATMs are typically those operated by major Thai banks such as Bangkok Bank, Krungthai, Kasikorn Bank, and Siam Commercial Bank, particularly when located inside their branches or reputable establishments.
Common ATM Scams to Watch Out For
While Thailand is generally safe for ATM usage, travellers should be aware of several scams and security risks. I’ll cover them below for you.
Most Common ATM Scams in Thailand
| Scam Type | How It Works | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Card Skimming | Devices placed over card slots to steal data | Check for loose parts, use bank branch ATMs |
| Shoulder Surfing | Thieves watching PIN entry | Cover keypad, be aware of surroundings |
| Fake Keypads | Overlay devices recording PIN numbers | Check for unusual keypad thickness |
| Distraction Scams | Working in teams to distract users | Never accept help from strangers at ATMs |
Safety Tips for ATM Usage
Following these essential safety measures can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of ATM fraud or theft in Thailand:
Before Using the ATM
- Notify your bank of travel plans to Thailand
- Save emergency bank numbers in your phone
- Choose ATMs in well-lit, monitored locations
- Avoid using ATMs late at night
- Bring a friend if possible, especially after dark
During ATM Use
- Inspect the ATM for suspicious devices or modifications
- Cover the keypad when entering your PIN
- Don’t accept help from strangers
- Keep your transaction receipt
- Be aware of your surroundings
You could additionally completely remove the need for using a card by getting a Thai bank account, this is possible as a foreigner if you are staying long-term in Thailand. When you have a bank account, you can use the QR system to withdraw cash from ATMs, and also pay people directly so you’ll never have to carry cash around in Thailand.
Other than that just use common sense and you’ll likely be fine! Thailand is pretty safe for tourists.
I’m Harry – and I was tired of the same old “10 best places I’ve never been but I’m writing about for some reason” blog posts. So… I’m a young traveller on a mission to travel the world and share my true, unfiltered experience, including all the gristly details. From packing my life into one bag for a year, to traveling Vietnam by motorbike, to sorting out Visas for specific countries – I’ve done it all, am doing it all and only give my advice on things I have done – not regurgitated cr*p from another source *cough* most publications *cough*. So bear with us! This project will take some time to grow, and will take a fair bit of money. But I’m determined to make it the single best source of information about traveling on the internet.
