ATM Security – Choosing an ATM

The automated teller machine (ATM) is a wonderful invention. In fact, the ATM Industry Association (ATMIA) notes that the ATM is one of the most significant technological inventions of the 20th century. ATMs have made banking more convenient by providing millions of cardholders around the world with 24-hour, 7-day-a-week access to their money.

This convenience is not without risk, however. Unfortunately, ATMs can be subject to fraud, vandalism, burglary, and may be the scene of robberies. In an effort to educate our members, we will feature several articles about ATM security that will appear in our Fraud and Security Center. We’ll cover topics such as choosing an ATM wisely, safely using an ATM and proper ATM card management.

Members 1st as well as other financial institutions everywhere do their best to choose ATM sites that are safe and convenient, however you still must be careful when choosing which ATM to use. Below is a list of five general tips for properly choosing an ATM as recommended by the Global ATM Security Alliance (GASA). They may be simple, but they are proven methods to help ensure your personal safety when using an ATM.

• Where possible, use an ATM with which you are most familiar. Alternatively, choose a well-lit, well-placed ATM where you feel comfortable. When possible, use a “drive up” ATM, especially if you’re alone and it is at night. Keep your car doors locked.
• Scan the entire ATM area before you approach it. Avoid using the ATM if there are any suspicious-looking characters around or if it looks too isolated or unsafe. Trust your instincts.
• Avoid opening your purse, bag or wallet when you are in front of the ATM. Have your card ready in your hand before you approach the ATM.
• Observe if anything looks unusual or suspicious about the ATM indicating it might have been altered. If the ATM appears to have any attachments to the card slot or keypad, do not use it. Check for unusual instructions on the display screen and for suspicious blank screens. If you suspect that the ATM has been tampered with, proceed to another ATM and inform the financial institution.
• Avoid an ATM which has a message or a sign affixed to it indicating that the screen directions have been changed, especially if the message is posted over the card reader. Financial institutions will not post messages directing you to use an ATM that has been altered.

Remember that millions of ATM transactions are successfully carried out each day around the world with only a tiny fraction of criminal incidents. By applying a few simple and common sense techniques, you can take advantage of this convenient, technological marvel without fear of becoming a victim.