To their credit, banks have tried to make ATMs much safer for us. They've installed bright lights and security cameras. They don't want anyone else robbing us. Some lawmakers, bless their hearts, are trying to put a limit on the surcharges. They don't want bankers to get carried away and use ATMs to pay for their BMWs.
Banks say they have to charge a fee because ATMs are expensive.
It would be cheaper to put a human in a box. But there's probably a law against that. And humans, unlike machines, are prone to make mistakes and they're also prone to run to Mexico with the money. The surcharge also allows banks to install ATMs in many convenient places, such as parks, plazas and prisons. They especially want ATMs in places like casinos, where people are so desperate for money, they're willing to trade their spouses.