Most people just go to an ATM without a second thought. But picking the wrong ATM or using it at the wrong moment might endanger both your money and your personal information. ATM fraud is no longer simply card skimming today. As crooks get smarter, they have diversified their tactics to include shimming, cash trapping, and even stalking victims after they have taken out money.
At Handy Gear, we believe some wise habits can go a long way toward reducing your risk. Here are five times when banking and cybersecurity experts advise you to think twice before using an ATM.
1. If the ATM Looks Tampered With
Check out the machine thoroughly before inserting your card.
The FDIC instructs consumers to check for loose card readers, strange attachments, hidden cameras, or damaged keypads that could mean a skimming device or skimmer has been placed to take your card information.
If anything is not right, do not use the machine. Tell the bank and go to a different ATM.
2. When You Are Using a Standalone ATM in an Isolated Location
An ATM located in an isolated location, such as a convenience store, a gas station late at night, or a poorly lit area, might increase the risk of fraud and personal safety issues.
Always look for an ATM within a bank branch or in a well-lit, busy place that has visible security cameras. People are coming and going all the time, and criminals are less likely to target machines like that.
3. When Someone Is Standing Too Close
Always keep your PIN secret.
If someone else is close enough to see you enter your PIN or is rushing you, cancel the transaction and wait until you think it is safe to resume it.
Even if no one seems to be looking, cover the keypad with your palm while you type your PIN. This simple practice protects against shoulder surfing and concealed cameras.
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4. When You Notice Anyone Watching Customers
Some thieves don’t steal your card; they steal your money.
Law enforcement calls that “jugging,” because it involves thieves following victims who are withdrawing money, hoping to steal it later.
If you see someone watching customers suspiciously, or following them after transactions, leave the area and use another ATM instead.
5. When the ATM Doesn’t Return Your Card or Cash Properly
If the machine suddenly keeps your card, doesn’t pay out cash correctly, or behaves strangely, don’t walk away.
Some thieves use cash-trapping devices that don’t immediately give up the money, relying on consumers to leave before they can return and collect the trapped cash.
If you see anything unusual, call the bank immediately using the number shown on the ATM, monitor your account for any unauthorized activity, and report it as soon as possible.
The Bottom Line
Generally, using an ATM is safe, but the machine itself and its location are also important. Steer clear of ATMs that appear tampered with, are in a remote area, don’t offer privacy, are attracting suspicious individuals, or aren’t functioning properly during your transaction.
It doesn’t take much – just a few extra seconds to look over the machine and remain attentive to your surroundings to protect your bank account, debit card, and personal information. If you’re not sure, don’t perform the transaction and use a bank-owned ATM you trust.
