ATM Security
ATM cash machines have been incorporated in our way of life.
They offer a real convenience to those on the run but at the
same time offer an element of risk. Using an ATM machine safely
requires awareness and a little planning. Just because an ATM
machine is open and available 24-hours a day doesn't mean it is
safe to use it. Most ATM robberies occur at night between 8:00
PM and midnight. ATM robbers are usually males under 25 years of
age and most work alone. ATM robbers usually position themselves
nearby waiting for a victim to approach and withdraw cash. Most
ATM robbery victims are women and were alone when robbed. Most
claim that they neversaw the robber coming. Most ATM robbers
used a gun or claimed to have a concealed weapon when
confronting the victim and demanding their cash.
If you or your family members use ATM cash machines on a regular
basis, here are some tips that can make the process a little
safer:
- Use only ATM machines in well-lighted, high traffic areas.
Don't use ATM machines that are remote or hidden, such as being
located behind buildings, behind pillars, walls, or away from
public view. Beware of obvious hiding places like shrubbery or
overgrown trees. ATM robbers like to have the element of
surprise and no witnesses. Robbers like good escape routes like
nearby freeway on-ramps or high-speed thoroughfares.
- Choose an ATM that looks and 'feels' safer, even if it is a
couple of miles out of the way. Try and limit your use to
daylight hours. Take someone with you after hours, if you can.
When you drive up to an ATM location, scan the area for any
suspicious persons. If you see anyone suspicious standing nearby
or sitting in a car, drive away. When you approach and ATM on
foot, be prepared and have your access card ready. Memorize your
personal PIN number to prevent loss and speed the transaction.
After inserting your card and your PIN number, keep an eye out
behind you. Never accept an offer to help or request for help
from a suspicious male ahead of you at the machine. If anyone
suspicious or seemingly dangerous approaches, terminate your
transaction and leave immediately, evin if it means running away
and leaving your ATM card in the machine. First, tell the
suspicious male in a loud, firm voice to "back-off" and leave
you alone. This is designed to startle the person and give you
time to flee, if appropriate. When you receive cash from the
machine, put it away immediately, extract your card, and walk
away.
- If you use your car at a drive-thru ATM machine, the same
rules apply. Keep the car in gear, with your foot firmly on the
brake, while using the ATM machine. Keep a close eye on your
rear and side view mirrors during the transaction. Robbers
almost always approach from the rear on the driver's side. If
you see anyone aproaching, drive off even if it means leaving
your ATM card behind. If an armed robber confronts you, just
give up your money without argument. The cash is not worth
serious injury or death. Get to a safe place and call the police
immediately.
- If lights are around the ATM are not working, don't use that
machine.
- Avoid ATM machines adjacent to obvious hiding places.
- Have your card ready and leave quickly, not counting your
cash in public.
- Beware of offers for help from strangers during an ATM
transaction.
- Don't fight with or attempt to follow the robber.
- Drive or walk to a safe place and immediately call the police.
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