Cash Trapping Scam Discovered at Philadelphia ATMs

New crime targets ATM users by preventing them from receiving their money after withdrawal.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 11:04pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a metal cash trap device attached to an ATM cash dispensing slot, creating a stark, gritty, investigative visual representation of this financial crime.A cash trapping device discovered on a Philadelphia ATM exposes the growing threat of this financial crime targeting urban areas.Philadelphia Today

A new type of crime called 'cash trapping' has emerged, targeting ATM users in Philadelphia by preventing them from receiving their money after withdrawal. Police have discovered cash traps on nine different ATMs throughout the city, with suspects believed to have placed the traps on weekends when bank branches were closed.

Why it matters

Cash trapping scams have been on the rise across the country, with the Northeast now seeing an increase in these incidents. This type of crime can lead to significant financial losses for victims and raises concerns about the security of ATM systems in urban areas.

The details

Cash traps involve a long metal cover placed over the ATM's cash dispensing slot, which prevents the money from being dispensed to the user and instead collects it behind the trap. Police have issued a lookout for a pair of suspects believed to have placed the cash traps last weekend when bank branches were closed, taking advantage of the lack of oversight.

  • Cash trapping first appeared in several southern states last fall.
  • The cash traps were discovered in Philadelphia on Wednesday.

The players

Philadelphia Police

The local law enforcement agency that revealed the cash trapping incidents and issued a lookout for suspects.

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What they’re saying

“The offenders are going in there on Saturday and Sunday and attach them to the machine because the branches are closed and people can't go in there and say the MAC machine is broke.”

— Philadelphia Police

What’s next

Police are urging ATM users to inspect the machines before use, looking for any loose parts or potential skimmers attached to the card reader slot. Authorities are also continuing their investigation to identify and apprehend the suspects responsible for the cash trapping incidents.

The takeaway

This cash trapping scam highlights the importance of ATM security and the need for vigilance from consumers when using public banking machines. As these types of crimes become more prevalent, it is crucial for people to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect themselves from financial losses.