Protect Yourself at the ATM 

With all the focus on Identity Theft, we sometimes need to remind ourselves that criminals continue to prey on unsuspecting people in many other ways. The ATM has become such a regular, convenient part of our lives that many of us have gotten out of the habit of taking the safety precautions that are so important to protecting us and our money. 

One of the ways consumers are being targeted is through “skimming”. Thieves have targeted some non-bank, stand-alone ATMs for skimming scams. They rig the ATM with a device that captures the magnetic stripe and key pad information. ATMs at a bank location or those requiring your card to gain access to the area that houses the ATM present the least skimming risk. If an ATM looks suspicious – for instance, if it has a discolored card reader or an unresponsive keypad – use another machine. 

Keeping the following tips in mind will help to protect you against ATM fraud: 

• Be wary of nearby strangers or “good Samaritans” that offer to help you, particularly when an ATM eats your card. They could be trying to obtain your card and Personal Identification Number (PIN). Work only with your financial institution and/or the owner of the ATM if trouble occurs.
• A favorite tactic of purse-snatchers and pickpockets is to call their victims claiming to be the police or the bank and ask for the PIN number for verification. Banks will never call to ask for your PIN and the police don’t verify identities by asking for a PIN.
• Never give your PIN number to anyone (not even family members) who do not share your account.
• Regularly check your monthly statement for unrecognized withdrawals, and contact your bank immediately if you notice something suspicious.
• Be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. Make sure the ATM is free of sight obstructions. If you observe suspicious persons or circumstances, do not use the machine.
• Have your ATM card ready and in your hand as you approach the ATM.
• Use your body to shield the ATM keypad as you enter your PIN and transaction details.
• Always take your receipts or transaction records with you. Never throw them in a public container. Tear them up or shred them at home when you no longer need them.
• Do not count or visually display any money you received from the ATM. Immediately put your money into your pocket or purse and count it later.
• If you are using a drive-up ATM, be sure passenger windows are rolled up and all doors are locked. If you leave your car and walk to the ATM, lock your car.
• Keep a record of card numbers, PINs, expiration dates, and 1-800 numbers for issuing banks in a safe place so you can contact them easily in cases of theft.