Ten Important ATM And Debit Card Safety Tips

September 9th, 2008

We’ve all been here before: a situation where we have to quickly get some cash to face a real (or perceived) emergency. The first thing that comes to mind is to stop at the nearest ATM to take out some money. Unfortunately, although all ATMs will give you access to your money, they’re not created equal. Personally, unless I’m really in a bind, I only do business in ATMs located in bank branches. I don’t mind the extra fee if it’s going to save me time and money down the road.

In a perfect world, all ATMs would be placed in safe, secured, well-lit areas, where the possibility of ATM and/or debit card fraud would be kept to a minimum. But as we all know, we do not live in a perfect world, and as such, we have to deal with not-so-perfect circumstances. No matter what, the following important ATM & Debit Card Safety Tips should always be on your mind whenever you’re making an ATM transaction.

Pay attention to your surroundings. Consider taking a friend with you if you use an ATM at night or in a deserted area
Park in a well-lit area close to the ATM, and prepare your transactions before approaching the ATM. Close the entry door completely upon entering an ATM facility equipped with a door. Do not permit any unknown person(s) to enter an ATM facility with you after regular banking hours
If you notice something suspicious or feel uncomfortable, cancel your transaction and leave the ATM immediately. Report all crimes immediately to the operator of the automated teller machine or to local law enforcement
When using an ATM or point-of-sale (POS) terminal, shield the keypad while entering your PIN number. Whenever possible, use your body as a shield.
Put your cash in your handbag or pocket immediately; wait to count it until you get home or are safely in your car
Take your transaction receipt with you. Do not leave it at the ATM
When using your debit card for purchases, review your sales slip before signing it and check to see if the correct amount has been filled in. Never sign a blank sales slip.
Make sure the merchant returns your card to you when your purchase transaction is complete
Memorize your PIN number. Do not write your PIN number on your card and never give your PIN number to anyone. The bank will not call you to request the information
Protect your debit card as you would cash, checks, or credit cards. Report lost or stolen cards immediately.

Follow each of these tips when using your debit or ATM cards to make sure you are keeping them safe, and you are doing everything you can to avoid falling victim to fraud.