10 ATM Safety Tips
One of the most common crimes in South Africa takes place a t ATM machines. This is where criminals feed off of people who come to withdraw money. There are many ways in which they can rob you besides physically approaching you. With time there have been smarter ways to scam people out of their money. Here’s a list of 10 ways to make sure that you are safe when using an ATM machine.
1. Always pay close attention to the ATM and your surroundings. Don’t select an ATM at the corner of a building. Corners create a blind spot. Instead use an ATM located near the centre of a building.
2. Be awareness of your surroundings throughout the entire transaction. Be wary of people trying to help you with ATM transactions. Be aware of anyone sitting in a parked car nearby. When leaving an ATM make sure you are not being followed. If you are, drive immediately to a police or fire station, or to a crowded, well-lighted location or business.
3. Do not use an ATM that appears unusual looking or offers options with which you are not familiar or comfortable with. Do what you came to do at the ATM and then leave. Experimenting could be detrimental.
4. Do not allow people to look over your shoulder as you enter your PIN. Memorize your PIN and never write it on the back of your card. Should you lose your card, this would give anyone who finds it access to your bank account.
5. Do not re-enter your PIN if the ATM eats your card. Instead contact your bank official and don’t leave the ATM till your account has been frozen. Many people have lost large amounts of money because as soon as the machine swallowed their card, they left the ATM.
6. Do not wear expensive jewellery or take other valuables to the ATM. This is an added incentive to criminals. This would draw attention to you ang give of the impression that you have money.
7. Never count cash at the machine or in public. Wait until you are in your car or another secure place. Never give criminals a reason to attack you. As soon as you with draw the money, safely put it away.
8. Maintain a supply of deposit envelopes at home or in your car. Prepare all transaction paperwork prior to your arrival at the ATM. This will minimize the amount of time spent at the machine.
9. Closely monitor your bank statements, as well as your balances, and immediately report any problems to your bank. This way, should anything you can show your bank that you’ve been keeping track of your account.
10. If you are involved in a confrontation with an assailant who demands your money, COMPLY. For the sake of your safety, then go straight to the nearest police station or a safe place where you can make a phone call.
