ATM Safety

These ATM safety techniques are primarily for keeping you safe, the security of your money is secondary. These tips can be useful for self defense for women.

According to recent surveys ATM crime is decreasing due to heightened awareness and prevention applications.

Select ATM with their surrounding environment in mind.
Pick an ATM located near the center of a building or block. Avoid using ATMs located on corners, as this creates blind areas and more background to be aware of.

Do not use ATMs surrounded by shrubbery, signs or partitions as this could be a place for an assailant to hide. Choose well lit ATMs.

For maximum ATM safety choose ones that are monitored by a security officer. Wide angle and/or continuous surveillance cameras are preferred.

Always walk with confidence. Be fully aware of your surroundings, visually scan the area as you approach. Listen to your gut feelings. If you sense or notice anything strange or unusual leave immediately. This would include someone sitting in a parked car nearby.

Come totally prepared for the transaction. Always have spare deposit envelopes in you home or car and have them loaded and recorded before approaching the ATM.

Do not wear expensive or large jewelry. If you withdraw cash put it away immediately. Do not leave your receipt at the ATM.

If using a drive up ATM make sure all doors and windows are locked. If walking in, lock your car when leaving it.

Make sure that when you drive away you are not being followed. If you are, drive immediately to a local law enforcement authority or open business area and honk your horn and flash your lights to draw attention.

Never lend your card to someone else. Do not write down your PIN. Don’t share your PIN with anyone including bank authorities.

Make sure that no one else can see the keypad as you enter your PIN.

Shield it with your body or even other hand. Do not accept the help of anyone but bank employees in regard to your ATM transaction

If you are approached and confronted by a thief, give him the money, it is not as important as your personal safety.

Immediately report lost or stolen card.

Practice ATM Safety for personal security while satellite banking.

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