2026-10-21
Image: WrS.tm.pl / Wikimedia Commons · CC0 1.0
In short
- With DCC the shop or ATM converts to forints for you: this is almost always dearer – say no.
- Prefer a bank-owned ATM over a stand-alone operator and read the fee before you confirm.
- Withdraw less often but not more than you can keep safe.
What DCC is
With dynamic currency conversion (DCC) the ATM or card terminal offers to charge you in your card’s currency (forints, say) instead of the local one. It looks convenient, but the operator does the conversion at its own rate, which is usually less favourable.
The rule is simple: when asked which currency to pay in, choose the local one and let your own bank convert. In the EU the conversion cost must also be shown against the ECB reference rate.
Choosing a good ATM
- ATMs inside or on the wall of a bank branch are usually more trustworthy than stand-alone street machines.
- Check the withdrawal fee on screen and cancel if it seems high.
- Cover the keypad when typing your PIN and avoid readers that look loose or tampered with.
- If the machine keeps your card or does not dispense cash, call your bank straight away and block the card.
Checklist
- Choose local currency when asked?
- Bank ATM, fee checked?
- PIN covered, reader looks normal?
Reviewed: 2026-10-21.
