Home Technology ATM Machine Goes Rogue, Spits Out $37,000

ATM Machine Goes Rogue, Spits Out $37,000

When you purchase through our sponsored links, we may earn a commission. By using this website you agree to our T&Cs.

It was 5:30 in the morning and a woman waiting in line for the ATM in South Portland, Maine was cold and getting impatient.

So much cash, so little room in a shopping bag

The man in front of her was taking an unusual amount of time, literally stuffing cash in all available pockets until there was no more room, when he turned to fill a shopping bag with cash.

It turns out police are now investigating an ATM machine gone rogue that was literally spitting out cash.

According to reports on WGME-TV in Portland, Maine, police responded to a woman calling and saying a man was behaving unusually in front of an ATM.  When officers arrived they discovered the man had requested $140 from the ATM, but the machine spit out $37,000 from TD Bank’s branch ATM.  As responding officers they witnessed the man plowing cash into the shopping bag as fast as it was being spit out from the ATM.

“Code error” cause

While police continue to investigate, the money was returned to the bank and they do not anticipate pressing charges. A bank executive said the problem was a non-descript “code error” and that customer accounts were not impacted by the incident.

The unknown man was not identified because he wasn’t charged.  He did walk away from the ATM with his $140 and a story to tell.

As society contemplates computers who operate our stock exchanges and financial infrastructure, and robots play an increasingly important role in society, there is nothing to be alarmed about in an ATM machine spitting out hordes of cash to an early morning bank customers.

Our Editorial Standards

At ValueWalk, we’re committed to providing accurate, research-backed information. Our editors go above and beyond to ensure our content is trustworthy and transparent.

Mark Melin
Editor

Want Financial Guidance Sent Straight to You?

  • Pop your email in the box, and you'll receive bi-weekly emails from ValueWalk.
  • We never send spam — only the latest financial news and guides to help you take charge of your financial future.