ATM Security
Using an automated teller machine gives you a great deal of convenience. Access to your credit union funds is as close as your nearest ATM. But while using an ATM is a great convenience, you should be concerned with the security of all of your ATM transactions.
Here are some important steps you can take to make your ATM transactions more secure.
Keeping Your ATM Card Secure
Treat your ATM card like cash. Always keep your card in a safe place. It's a good idea to store your card in a card sleeve. The sleeve protects the card's magnetic stripe and helps ensure that the card functions properly.
Keep your "secret code" a secret. Your ATM card will only work with your personal identification number or PIN. Memorize your code. Never write it on your card or store it with the card. Never tell your code to anyone. And never let someone else enter your code for you.Do not give out any information over the telephone. No one needs to know your secret code. Not even us.
Report a lost or stolen card at once. Even though your ATM card cannot be used without your secret code, promptly report a lost or stolen card. You will be issued another card at once.
Check your receipts against your monthly statement to guard against ATM fraud. You get a receipt every time you make an ATM transaction. Verify each transaction by checking the receipts against your monthly statements.
Security at Walk-Up ATMs
Always observe your surroundings before conducting an ATM transaction. If you are driving to an ATM, park as close as possible to the terminal. Observe the entire area from the safety of your car before getting out. If you see anyone or anything suspicious, leave the area at once.
If an ATM is obstructed from view or poorly lit, go to another ATM. Report the problem to the financial institution that owns the ATM. When possible, take a companion along when using an ATM - especially at night.
Minimize time spent at the ATM by having your card out and ready to use. If the ATM is in use, give the person using the terminal the same privacy you expect. Allow them to move away from the ATM before you approach the terminal.
Stand between the ATM and anyone waiting to use the terminal so that others cannot see your secret code or transaction amount. Once you have completed your transaction, take your money, card and receipt and move away from the terminal.
If you see anyone or anything suspicious while conducting a transaction, cancel your transaction and leave.
If you are followed after making an ATM transaction, go immediately to a heavily populated, well-lighted area and call the police.
Security at Drive-Up ATMs
Keep your engine running, the doors locked and the windows up at all times when waiting in line at a drive-up ATM.
When possible, leave enough room between cars to allow for a quick exit should it become necessary. If an ATM is obstructed from view of poorly lit, go to another ATM. Report the problem to the financial institution.
Before rolling down the window to use the ATM, check the entire area for anything or anyone suspicious. If you see anyone or anything suspicious, drive away from the area at once.
Minimize time spent at the ATM by having your card out and ready to use. Once you have completed your transaction, take your money, card and receipt and drive away from the terminal.
If you see anyone or anything suspicious while conducting a transaction, cancel your transaction and leave.
If you are followed after making an ATM transaction, go immediately to a heavily-populated, well-lighted area and call the police.
ATM Questions
If you have ATM security concerns or other questions, please contact BACU.