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Helpful festive season ATM safety tips

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When using an ATM it’s important to practice caution at all times, by being extra vigilant ATM users can avoid falling victim to these crimes.

Lee-Anne van Zyl, CEO of FNB Points of Presence, says, “Consistently arming consumers with information is one of several strategies we use to fight ATM fraud, if customers know what to do they are less likely to fall prey to scammers.”

Tips for protecting your ATM PIN

  • Keep your ATM PIN confidential, if it lands in the wrong hands you risk being scammed.
  • Never write down your PIN number, always memorise it and never share it with anyone, even family members or friends
  • The PIN must never be easy to guess, avoid using your date of birth as your PIN number.
  • When transacting, cover the key pad with your hand – scammers can place cameras to record your PIN as you enter this.
  • Stand as close as possible to the ATM and never let anyone stand close to you whilst transacting.
  • Do not enter your PIN on a screen that is unfamiliar to you. Carefully read the instruction on the ATM screen before entering your PIN.

Tips for protecting your cash

  • Once cash has been withdrawn, immediately place this out of sight. Avoid handling cash in public view.
  • Secure your wallet or handbag before leaving the ATM
  • Set a realistic daily limit to protect yourself, should your details be compromised
  • Check your statements and balances regularly and report any suspicious transactions to the bank immediately
  • Rather use your debit card for purchases
  • Be wary of strangers that may call you back to the ATM to complete a transaction. They often ask for assistance or offer to assist you – this is how skimming occurs.
  • Once you have completed your transaction, leave the ATM as soon as possible and avoid conversation with strangers.

Remember to:

  • Never ask for help from strangers, even the security guard – if you are unsure,  visit a nearby branch for assistance
  • Never force your card into the ATM – if the card is not easily accepted by the device, it may have been tampered with by criminals
  • Never use an ATM if it looks faulty – this may mean the device has been tampered with. Discontinue the transaction and seek another device.
  • Never respond to strangers who disturb you during a transaction, even if they seem respectable and well spoken
  • Pay attention to your surroundings and be alert –  look out for loiterers

“Knowing what look out for and what not to do could potentially save customers their hard-earned money. The festive season is around the corner; therefore consumers are urged to be extra vigilant, this is a busy time but it’s not the best moment to let the guard down,” Concludes van Zyl.

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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.