Greek banks scrap cash withdrawals from ATMs

Did you actually read the entire article? This is a transition in process and hasn’t been fully implemented yet and one can still retrieve cash from ATM’s. Yes, 3 major Greek banks have STARTED the transition process and have yet to complete it. It’s mainly to battle hacking of bank cards and ID theft, which is a major issue globally and probably happens more in the USA than anywhere in the EU. One can still withdraw cash using one’s phone by contactless transaction such as is done in stores.

I bet 20 kilos of moussaka that in 2035 you will still be able to withdraw money in Greece with a regular credit card.

I've never had any issues using my debit card at any ATM in Greece including ID theft or other type of scam.

If this goes through it would affect mostly locals but how about those millions of tourists every year?

Not everyone uses a cell phone to make transactions especially in a foreign country (at least I don't) or is knowledgeable about using cell phones other than making calls, texting, internet.

It's so easy to use a debit card at a ATM and think this would be an imposition to everyone who doesn't need more stress or "what ifs" in a foreign country!

Thanks for the replies. The whole idea seemed a little strange and unworkable to me. But even sovereign nations can implement counter intuitive policies. I will keep an eye on this issue.