Consumer ATM Safety Tips
June 26, 2009 by Jo
Filed under Finances, Managing Life, Safety, Technology
ATMs (automated teller machine) are a great convenience, allowing us to do our banking 24 hours a day. Given the widespread availability of ATM access and the convenience it affords, using an ATM card has become an important part of our everyday life. By following some common sense guidelines, we can help ensure that our transactions will be safe, as well as convenient. Please practice the following safety tips every time you use an ATM:
1. Be Observant
The most important key to using your ATM card safely is to be observant and look around for any suspicious persons or activity near the ATM machine. If you see anything that looks suspicious, go to another machine or return later.Make sure that the person next in line to use the ATM is keeping a safe distance from you.
Do not use ATMs that appear to have tampered card or cash slots. Report anything that seems suspicious to the corresponding bank immediately.
2. Guard Your PIN
Do not entertain strangers who attempt to engage you in a conversation or pretend to offer help while you are transacting in an ATM. This person may just be after your PIN and card number.Never divulge your PINs to other persons. Change your PIN if you think it has been compromised.
3. Have Your Card in Your Hand
It is a good idea to have your ATM card in your hand and ready to use as you approach the ATM machine so that you do not have to take extra time at the machine to take the card out of your wallet or purse.
4. Shield Your Transaction
Use your body or hand or an object to shield the ATM keyboard when you enter your PIN. Do not give someone else the opportunity to see the number that you are entering.In case there is a hidden camera attached to the machine, covering the keypad with your other hand while entering the numbers could prevent the capture of your PIN.
5. Don’t Leave Your Receipt
Be sure to take your receipt or transaction records with you when you leave.
6. Put Away Your Cash
Put your cash away immediately in your pocket, wallet or purse. Do not display or count it at the machine. You can always count it later.
7. Keep Your Car Secured
Lock your car if you have to get out to use the ATM machine. If you use a drive-up ATM machine, lock all doors and be sure the passenger-side windows are rolled up.
8.Using an ATM at Night
* If possible, take another person with you.
* Park in a well-lighted area as close to the machine as possible.
* Do not use the machine if the lights on it are not working.
* If the view of the ATM machine is blocked by overgrown shrubbery or trees, or any other objects, use another machine.
* Notify the bank about the visibility problem.
When in need of assistance, you should immediately contact the ATM hotline numbers which are normally posted on ATM machines.
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