As we all know, an ATM (Automated Teller Machine) is a great convenience for withdrawing cash. Using them, however, can sometimes compromise our safety and security.
ATM theft can occur in 2 different ways. One is unauthorized withdrawals from your account. The other is physical theft of cash from the person conducting the transaction.
As all categories of theft are on the rise across the nation, we would like to provide you some tips to help protect you and your account.
Card Security:
- Treat your ATM card as if it is cash. Always keep your card in a safe place.
- Keep your PIN (Personal Identification Number) secret. Memorize your code and never write it on your card. Tell no one your code or allow anyone to enter it. Not even the bank.
- Safety envelopes may prevent unauthorized scanning of debit cards with embedded chips.
- Inspect the ATM for tampering or for unauthorized attachments that capture information before you use it.
- You get a receipt each time you make an ATM transaction. To guard against fraud, verify each transaction by checking your receipts against your monthly account statements. Don’t discard your receipts which contain important information. If you choose to discard the receipts, then shred them.
- Fraudsters are known to call phones or send emails posing as an organization you may trust to ask for your personal information. Do not give information about yourself or your card over the telephone or Internet unless you initiated the transaction.
- If your checkbook, social security number, or driver’s license number is lost or stolen, contact your bank immediately. You may need to close your account an open a new one.
- When finished using your card online, log out of the website rather than merely closing the web browser.
- If your ATM card is lost or stolen or your PIN is compromised, report it immediately to your banking center by use of their 24 hour Customer Service Number.
- If a crime was committed, file a report with law enforcement where the crime occurred and obtain a copy of the offense number.
For more information on protecting your personal information, visit the Financial Security section of our website.