Safe: Not Sorry!

Jan 16, 2002 4:27 PM

ATM PRECAUTIONS

• Getting money from an ATM is a great convenience. It's also an opportunity area for thieves and scammers. Use your eyes, ears and instincts to assure your safety. You should feel comfortable when you enter and leave.
• Try to find an ATM that is well lit and has a security surveillance camera, as most do these days. Use the mirror that many ATMs provide to keep alert to people behind you.
• If someone inside makes you uncomfortable, leave or don't enter.
• If you go to an ATM room at night, bring along a friend.
• Make sure the entry door is securely locked when you enter and exit. Don't open the door for anyone.
• Prepare yourself in advance. Fill out a deposit or withdrawal slip at home. If depositing money, have it in a sealed envelope. After a withdrawal, put your money, receipt, card and wallet into your pocket or purse before leaving the ATM.
• Memorize your PIN so that you don't have to take it out of a wallet or purse when you need it.
• When entering your PIN, block anyone's view of the machine with your body so what you're entering can't be seen by someone behind you. If you think someone is looking over your shoulder, cancel the transaction and leave.
• Guard your card. Report loss or theft immediately. If unauthorized ATM transactions show up on your statement, notify your financial institution immediately.
• If you use a drive-up ATM, keep your engine running, lock all doors, open only the driver's window.
• If walking to your ATM, stay alert and don't linger near the machine.