Over the past years, usage of ATM has become very convenient and accessible to all. Though we all live in a digital world, however we still need cash for different reasons. ATM is one of the easiest ways through which we can easily get the money without visiting any bank branch. It is available in almost every location at different bank branches, complexes, Malls etc. With increased fraud, threats, robberies, scams, using ATMs can compromise your safety. It is very important to safeguard yourself while using an ATM. There are few of the main things that you should be aware of and you should have these in mind for staying safe.
You need to follow the below to have a smooth and safe experience while accessing ATM:
Be Attentive: You need to be very alert at the time of using ATM, make sure you check suspicious activity or any person around you. Or there might be someone following you. Always check if there is a CCTV camera inside or security guard sitting outside the ATM room. Please make sure you count the cash inside the room or when you find a safer place, do not count in the open area.
Do not disclose ATM PIN: Always keep your ATM PIN a secret, no one should be aware of your PIN except your close family member. Anyone can use your ATM if that person is aware of the PIN. Please note that banks do not ask for your PIN or Passwords for any transactions. You might have received a call from someone acting on your bank’s behalf asking for your PIN, never share your financial details with these guys over the call. Do not save your PIN in your phone or write it down in your notebook.
Location: Do not ever access the ATM where location is unsafe. Always choose the location, which is a busy location, people on the roads, should not be a dark corner of the roads.
Do not ask strangers for help: In case you are stuck while using ATM, do no approach strangers for help. You can contact your bank and discuss the issues with them. In case you don’t get any help from your bank or in case your bank is not serviceable at that time, check for another ATM or try after some time.
Contact Bank for help: If you face any challenges while using ATM, always contact your respective bank for any help. There are instances, where amount gets debited from your bank account however you do not receive that money. Or your card is stuck in the ATM machine. Do not contact strangers for help, contact your bank on Toll free number and discuss such issues with them. They are the best ones to help you.
Check the ATM carefully: You should always look at the ATM before you start using it. There are times when fraudsters have added devices through which they can capture what you input. Or these devices can withhold your money. In such scenarios, always seek help from your banks. Also, do not throw your ATM receipt carelessly, this can be misused by any other person.
While we all understand that these machines are very convenient, however small care from us is very much important for a safe and secure transaction. Our intention is not to scare you from using the ATM card. You always need to be cautious so that you and your money is safe.
Stay Safe!