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ATM Safety

Beware of your surroundings and protect your credentials at an ATM and if at any time you don't feel safe, leave the area.

Girl using ATM
Cash machines at banks are probably the safest bet, but that doesn't mean you have to steer clear of the ones at malls, airports and sports venues. You can avoid becoming a victim by using some good old common sense and by planning ahead for ATM withdrawals.

Safety Tips

Be aware of your surroundings.

If possible, do your banking during the day.

If you must go to an ATM at night, only use one located in a well-lit, busy area.  If possible, use an ATM located inside another business, such as a gas station or convenience store.

When you go inside a building to use the ATM, make sure you take your purse, keys and other valuables with you.  Do not leave your car running.  And make sure you lock your doors and close your windows.

If you use a drive-through ATM, keep your doors locked, and only open the window needed to access the ATM.

Memorize your Personal Identification Number (PIN).  Do not keep a copy of your PIN in your wallet or purse.

When typing in your PIN, make sure that no one can see the number that you are inputting.  Don’t say the numbers out loud!

If you choose your own PIN, don’t use something common to you, such as your birthday, phone number, or numerical street address.

Once you get your money, put the money, receipt and your wallet away immediately.  Don’t count the cash in front of the ATM.  Wait until you are in your vehicle and are at a secure location.  If there is a discrepancy in the amount, visit the bank during the next day that the bank is open.  ATM machines are equipped with cameras, and the bank should be able to view the tape to determine the amount that of money you were issued.

If at any time you do not feel safe while at the ATM, cancel the transaction, take your card and receipt, and leave the area.  If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t right.  Trust your instincts.