ATM Safety Tips 2

ATM Safety Tips

Try to avoid using an ATM by yourself. Either take someone with you or only use an ATM when others are around.
If possible, avoid using an ATM after dark. If you must, choose one that is well lit and does not have tall bushes nearby.
When you arrive at an ATM, look around. If you see anything that makes you uncomfortable or anyone who looks suspicious, do not stop. Either use an ATM at a different location or come back later. Notify police.
Have your access card and any other documents you need ready when you approach an ATM. While you are fumbling with a wallet or purse, you are easy prey for a thief.
If someone else is using the ATM, stay alert to your surroundings. Look up and around every few seconds while transacting your business.
Protect your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Do not enter your PIN if anyone else can see the screen or keypad. Use your body to shield your PIN from onlookers. Don’t give your PIN out to others. This is the leading cause of theft.
When your transaction is finished, be sure you have your card and your receipt, then leave immediately. Avoid counting or otherwise displaying large amounts of cash.
As you leave, be aware of anything suspicious. If you think you are being followed, go to an area with a lot of people and call the police.

Bank ATMs Converted to Steal IDs of Bank Customers:
A team of organized criminals is installing equipment on legitimate bank ATMs in at least 2 regions to steal both the ATM card number and the PIN. The team sits nearby in a car receiving the information transmitted wirelessly over weekends and evenings from equipment they install on the front of the ATM (see photos). If you see an attachment like this, do not use the ATM and report it immediately to the bank using the 800 number or phone on the front of the ATM. The equipment used to capture your ATM card number and PIN is cleverly disguised to look like normal ATM equipment. A “skimmer” is mounted to the front of the normal ATM card slot that reads the ATM card number and transmits it to the criminals sitting in a nearby car.

At the same time, a wireless camera is disguised to look like a leaflet holder and is mounted in a position to view ATM PIN entries. The thieves copy the cards and use the PIN numbers to withdraw thousands from many accounts in a very short time directly from the bank ATM.