Police Warn of ATM Trap Door Scam Targeting Philly Residents

Authorities say thieves are rigging outdoor ATMs with hidden trap doors to steal cash from unsuspecting customers.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 1:36am

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Philadelphia police are warning residents about a new ATM scam involving trap doors that prevent customers from retrieving their cash. Investigators say at least two suspects have been attaching the trap doors to outdoor ATMs at bank branches across the city since mid-March, allowing them to steal money from victims who think the machine is broken.

Why it matters

This latest ATM fraud scheme highlights the ongoing threat of financial crimes targeting vulnerable consumers. With the rise of skimming devices and other scams, Philadelphians must remain vigilant when using public ATMs to protect their accounts and personal information.

The details

According to Capt. Robert McKeever of the Philadelphia Police Department's Major Crimes Unit, the trap doors are designed to stop the ATM's roll-down door from fully closing, trapping the customer's cash inside. The suspects are then able to retrieve the money later. Police have identified at least nine bank branches that have been hit by this scam since March 15, and they are reviewing surveillance footage to track down the two male suspects, who are believed to be using a dark-colored SUV with possible New Jersey plates.

  • The trap door scam has been occurring in Philadelphia since March 15, 2026.
  • Police were first alerted to the issue when one of the affected bank branches notified them about the incidents.

The players

Capt. Robert McKeever

Head of the Philadelphia Police Department's Major Crimes Unit, who is leading the investigation into the ATM trap door scam.

The Suspects

At least two unidentified male suspects who have been attaching trap doors to outdoor ATMs at bank branches across Philadelphia in order to steal customers' cash.

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What they’re saying

“'Usually with this type of [ATM], the roll door would roll down, and you can take your money out. This trap basically stops that so the roll door still rolls down, but the customer hears the machine rolling and they can't get the roll door to go down, so you think the ATM machine is broken or … might be out of money.'”

— Capt. Robert McKeever, Head of the Philadelphia Police Department's Major Crimes Unit

“'Going through the video that the branches are sending us, that's how we're tracking this individual down. We believe there are two individuals right now that are involved, but there could be possibly more.'”

— Capt. Robert McKeever, Head of the Philadelphia Police Department's Major Crimes Unit

What’s next

Police are asking anyone with information about the suspects or the ATM trap door scam to call 215-686-TIPS. They are also urging Philadelphians to be on the lookout for other financial fraud schemes, such as the use of skimming devices at ATMs and stores.

The takeaway

This ATM trap door scam serves as a stark reminder for consumers to remain vigilant when using public ATMs and to closely inspect the machines for any signs of tampering or suspicious activity. By working together with law enforcement, the community can help combat these types of financial crimes and protect vulnerable residents.