ATM Security Tips

These tips can be used to protect yourself and your money when visiting a Bank Central ATM.

Woman using phone at the ATM

At Bank Central, we take our customer’s security seriously, and have a number of precautions when it comes to protecting you at the ATM. Our ATM’s are in well-lit, secure, public places with plenty of foot traffic to ensure safety and easy access.
However, you also play a role in protecting yourself. Similar to other banking platforms, you care the best defense when it comes to protecting your personal information. Keep these safety precautions in mind during your next visit to the ATM:

Keep your personal identification number (PIN) confidential. It’s not safe to write it down or share it with anyone- not even family members. It’s also recommended that you update your PIN every year to keep it fresh.

Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. If you see any suspicious activity, like a person nearby or if there aren’t any lights around, trying finding an ATM in a more public or well-lit area.

Bring someone with you to the ATM. Even if you can’t find a friend to bring along, it’s a good idea to use an ATM in a public area, such as a grocery store or bank location. That way, in the event something happens, you’ll have the security footage and personnel to assist you.

Have your debit card ready to go as you approach the ATM. Searching through your wallet or purse leaves you in a vulnerable place, so it’s best to prepare what you need before approaching the ATM.

Use your body as a “shield” when using the ATM keyboard. If you cover your PIN with your body, it’s less likely someone watching a few feet away can see what you type. If you notice someone lingering around you, walk away and come back later.

Always take your receipts or transaction records with you. This helps eliminate the possibility of someone getting ahold of your personal information.

Do not count or visually display any money you received at from the ATM. You can always count your money later, so it’s best to put the money directly into your purse or wallet.

If you’re using a drive-up ATM, be sure passenger windows are rolled up and all doors are locked. It might also help to turn down your radio so you can stay more alert. If you need to leave your car to walk to the ATM, make sure to lock it.

Check the ATM for a card skimmer. Cards skimmers are devices attached to the payment terminal of an ATM that can be used to steal your card information. You can often spot a card skimmer on your own. If the card reader slot looks loose or is a different color scheme for the brand, it may be a card skimmer. Similarly, if the keyboard on the ATM feels too thick, the buttons don’t press easily, or it is an odd color, it’s best to find a different ATM.

Overall, being aware of your surroundings is the best way to eliminate any potential risk to your financial and physical well-being. Keeping these tips in mind will help you be more aware of what’s going on, and help you protect yourself.

 

Source:

[1] American Bankers Association

 

The information provided in these articles is intended for informational purposes only. It is not to be construed as the opinion of Central Bancompany, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and does not imply endorsement or support of any of the mentioned information, products, services, or providers. All information presented is without any representation, guaranty, or warranty regarding the accuracy, relevance, or completeness of the information.