If you see an unexpected message on an ATM screen, you may hesitate, particularly if you’re in a hurry for cash. If there is an out-of-the-ordinary warning or instruction on the machine, cancel the transaction and check the ATM before continuing.
Handy Gear advises travelers to take unexpected prompts seriously, because criminals can tamper with ATMs to obtain card details and PINs.
Don’t Ignore an Unusual ATM Message
Suspicious messages can include a prompt to re-enter your PIN, “card read error please insert again,” a request for your full card number, Social Security number, or online banking password, or a screen telling you to call a phone number.
An unusual message doesn’t necessarily mean the ATM has been compromised. The safer option in this scenario is to pause and identify issues before continuing.
If an ATM card reader appears unusual, the FBI recommends not using it. ATM skimming can be done inside the card reader, over the card reader, or elsewhere on the ATM. Criminals can also install spy cameras or create fake keypad overlays to steal PINs.
If you see a message that you didn’t expect, press Cancel and close the transaction. Don’t let being in a hurry push you into entering your PIN.
Check the ATM Before Trying Again
After you cancel the transaction, check the ATM without trying to disassemble or interfere with it. The FBI suggests looking for anything loose, crooked, damaged, or scratched. If there is an unusual card slot, keypad, or other part of the machine, these can be signs that someone has tampered with the ATM.
Check the card reader and keypad for anything that looks like an overlay or has been tampered with.
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If you notice suspicious activity or tampering, leave the ATM and report the issue to the ATM owner or bank.
Protect Your PIN
Always safeguard your PIN even when the ATM appears to be okay. Because criminals can use a hidden camera to record your PIN, the FBI advises covering as much of the keypad as possible when entering it.
In addition, The FDIC advises watching for anything attached to the machine that looks out of place.
Monitor Your Bank Account
Even if the ATM looked fine, your card details could still have been stolen. Criminals can use skimming to obtain card information and PINs, which they may use to create counterfeit cards or make unauthorized transactions.
If you’ve used an ATM that appears suspicious, review your bank account and alerts for any unfamiliar activity. Report any transaction you didn’t make to your bank right away.
Choose Safer ATMs
The FBI says ATMs in well-lit, indoor locations may be less vulnerable to skimming because criminals have less access to install skimmers, but no ATM is immune to tampering. You should be particularly careful when using machines in tourist areas; they are popular targets for skimmers.
Don’t rush if an ATM displays an unexpected message. If it doesn’t seem right, cancel the transaction and check the machine; if anything still seems suspicious, use another ATM. A few seconds of caution can save you a lot of trouble.
