Too many people are robbed or worse when they go to an ATM machine. Those who stand at the ATM for awhile, fumbling through their purse or wallet face a great risk. If you plan ahead, keep your eyes and ears open, and complete your ATM business quickly you will greatly reduce the amount of risk you face. Here are the top ten tips to keep you safe:
- Plan ahead and do not go to the ATM alone at night. If you absolutely must access your accounts after dark, make sure the ATM and parking lot are well-lit.
- If you make regular deposits at the ATM, keep a supply of deposit slips and envelopes on hand so you can have them filled out before you reach the ATM.
- Have your ATM or Check Card out and ready to use before you reach the ATM.
- Don't use an ATM if you notice any suspicious activity. If you do notice something suspicious, find another ATM or come back at a later time. Immediately report any suspicious activity to the police or the branch manager.
- Don't count your money at the ATM. Wait until you are safely in your car.
- When using a drive-up ATM, keep your doors locked, passenger windows rolled up, and the car running.
- Don't open locked ATM entrances or doorways for others. Authorized clients should have their own access card.
- Make sure you have your card, receipt, and cash before you leave the ATM.
- Keep your ATM receipts and record the transactions in your checkbook.
- If you use the night deposit box, have your night deposit bag and commercial key ready when you approach the depository. Once you've placed the bag in the depository, open it again to make sure your bag went down the chute.
