ATMs have become an essential part of our daily lives, offering easy access to cash and basic banking services. Whether you’re withdrawing money, checking your balance, or transferring funds, the convenience of an ATM can’t be overstated. However, with convenience comes responsibility, and ensuring your safety while using an ATM is more critical than ever.
Understanding the basic dos and don’ts can help protect your personal and financial information. These guidelines aren’t just for first-time users—they’re for everyone who wants to use ATMs with greater awareness and confidence.
Choose Your ATM Location Wisely
Always be mindful of your surroundings when using an ATM. Choose machines that are located in well-lit, secure, and busy areas. ATMs inside malls, bank branches, or commercial complexes are generally safer than those in isolated or poorly lit spots.
If you’re searching for an ATM near you, try to opt for one that feels safe and monitored, especially if you’re making a withdrawal late in the evening or during quiet hours. Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, find another location.
Shield Your PIN
Protecting your Personal Identification Number (PIN) is one of the simplest yet most essential habits to develop. Always cover the keypad with your hand while entering your PIN.
Avoid letting anyone stand too close behind you. If someone appears to be hovering or watching you closely, it’s perfectly acceptable to cancel your transaction and use another machine. Keep in mind that your PIN is the key to your account, and once compromised, it can lead to unauthorized access.
Stay Alert During Transactions
Never rush your ATM transactions. Take your time to follow the on-screen instructions, and always double-check the amount you’re withdrawing or transferring.
If you’re performing an ATM balance inquiry, ensure you’re completing the transaction fully before walking away. Leaving the screen active or forgetting to log out can expose your personal information to the next person who uses the machine.
In case the ATM seems to be malfunctioning—such as failing to dispense cash or returning your card—avoid forcing anything. Instead, cancel the transaction and contact your bank immediately.
Keep Your Card Secure
Treat your debit or ATM card like cash. Keep it in a safe, easily accessible place in your wallet, and never hand it over to strangers—even if they appear helpful.
Be cautious if someone offers assistance while you’re at an ATM. Genuine help should come from bank staff, not random individuals nearby. If you lose your card or suspect it’s been stolen, report it to your bank without delay.
Don’t Share ATM-Related Info
Avoid sharing your ATM PIN, card number, or account details with anyone. No bank will ever ask for your PIN, whether in person, over the phone, via text or email.
If someone calls claiming to be from your bank and requests this information, end the call immediately. These are likely attempts to gain unauthorized access to your account. Staying cautious with your information can go a long way in protecting your money.
Always Take Your Receipt
After completing your transaction, always collect your card and receipt. While many people leave receipts behind, they can contain sensitive details that might be misused.
If you’re doing an ATM balance inquiry, that receipt might display partial account information.
It’s best to either take the receipt with you or choose the ‘no receipt’ option if you’re concerned about disposing of it safely later.
Check Your Account Regularly
Staying on top of your transaction history can help you catch any unusual activity early. Use your bank’s mobile app or online portal to monitor your account balance and transaction details frequently.
You can also visit a nearby machine for an ATM balance inquiry whenever needed. If you spot any transactions you didn’t authorize, report them right away to your bank.
Don’t Accept Help from Strangers
It’s not uncommon for scammers to linger near ATMs under the pretense of offering help. They may distract you during your transaction or try to peek at your PIN.
If you face an issue while using the machine, cancel the transaction and contact your bank using official contact numbers. Avoid handing your card or personal details to anyone around, no matter how friendly or concerned they seem.
Keep Your Phone Secure Too
Since many people search for “ATM near me” using mobile apps or online maps, ensure your device is also secure. Avoid saving sensitive banking information on public devices or unsecured browsers.
Enable multi-factor authentication on your banking apps and never log in to bank accounts using public Wi-Fi. Protecting your phone is just as crucial as guarding your ATM card.
Conclusion
Using an ATM doesn’t have to be risky if you follow some basic safety practices. From shielding your PIN and choosing safe locations to staying alert and monitoring your account, small actions can make a big difference in keeping your money secure.
Next time you’re looking for an ATM near you, remember these simple dos and don’ts. Staying cautious, informed, and alert will not only protect your hard-earned money but also give you peace of mind every time you use an ATM.