A New Zealand tourist, identified as Portia Dawn Lawrence, fell victim to an ATM scam in Bali, losing a substantial amount of IDR 30,472,929. The incident unfolded on Saturday, the 2nd of September, 2023, when Lawrence attempted to withdraw cash from an ATM on Jalan Dyana Pura Seminyak.
Initially, Lawrence’s transaction appeared unsuccessful, with the ATM displaying an “error” message, leaving her card trapped inside the machine. Frustrated but unaware of the impending financial disaster, she left the scene and returned to her accommodations at the Countryad Mariot Hotel Seminyak.
However, shortly after arriving back at her hotel, Lawrence received a notification on her phone indicating that her bank account had been subjected to a series of unauthorised transactions. In total, 11 transactions had been made using her card, resulting in a staggering loss of IDR 30,472,929.
Realising that she had fallen prey to an ATM scam, Lawrence promptly reported the incident to local authorities. She received assistance from Nyoman Suardika, the Assistant Chief of Security at Countryad Mariot Hotel Seminyak, who accompanied her to the police station to file a formal complaint. The report was officially submitted on Wednesday, the 6th of September, 2023.
The case is currently under investigation by the Bali police, who have initiated a thorough probe into the matter. As part of their efforts, law enforcement officers have reviewed CCTV footage from various cameras near the ATM machine to identify the culprits responsible for this fraudulent activity.
Local authorities are urging residents and tourists alike to exercise caution when using ATMs and to be vigilant for any unusual behaviour or suspicious devices on or around the machines. Bali police advise all tourists to shield their PINs when entering them, inspect the card reader for any irregularities, and always be cautious of unknown individuals approaching them while conducting transactions.
ATM scam are common in tourist destinations, and visitors and locals are encouraged to report suspicious activities promptly. The police are committed to tracking down those responsible for the scam that has affected Portia Dawn Lawrence and ensuring that justice is served.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities will continue to work diligently to apprehend the culprits behind this scam and recover the lost funds for the New Zealand tourist. Travellers to Bali are reminded to stay vigilant and take precautions to protect their financial assets while enjoying the beauty and hospitality of this popular tourist destination.
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