About ATM Safety

  1. Observe the surroundings: Before approaching any automated teller machine (ATM), be alert for any suspicious persons or circumstances. Should you observe suspicious persons or circumstances or otherwise feel uneasy or uncomfortable with your surroundings, leave the area immediately - do not use the ATM. Come back at a later or more appropriate time or use an ATM at another location. Report any suspicious persons to law enforcement authorities.
  2. Be ready to transact business: Before approaching any ATM machine, have your access card and any other paperwork necessary for your particular transaction ready and in your hand. Having to retrieve these items from a purse or wallet is time-consuming and allows a potential thief easier access to your valuables. By being ready to transact business before approaching the ATM, your transaction becomes quicker and safer.
  3. Be courteous to other users: When approaching an ATM which is in current use, do not stand directly behind the person actually using the machine. An adequate distance will allow the person currently using the machine to conduct his/her transaction securely, privately, and confidentially.
  4. Remain observant while using the ATM: While transacting business at the ATM, continue to observe your surroundings. Be careful not to disclose or otherwise reveal your Personal Identification Number (PIN) to others while using the ATM. Never begin a transaction when strangers have a clear view of the ATM keyboard. Use your body to shield the ATM keyboard as you access the machine. This will allow you to access the machine without disclosing or revealing your PIN. You should check your surroundings every few seconds while actually using the ATM. Should you observe any suspicious persons or circumstances, terminate your transaction immediately, leave the area, and contact law enforcement authorities.
  5. Leave quickly: Upon completing your transaction, retrieving your card, and receiving your receipt, immediately leave the ATM area. Do not count or otherwise visually expose any money received from the ATM. Continue to observe your surroundings for any suspicious persons or circumstances such as anyone following or approaching you. Always maintain a safe distance between you and any stranger. If you believe that you are being followed, you should go to the nearest place where there are people and contact law enforcement authorities.