Be Careful when using A.T.M’s!

The ease of getting cash without joining long lines inside the bank has always been the biggest lure of using an Automated Teller Machine (A.T.M).  The machine dispenses money inside a safe cubicle which usually has a lock and metal chain.

Consumers  know that there is always a risk of being robbed as they exit the machine but did you know you can be robbed although you still have the money you withdrew?

This is because as soon as you left the machine, someone was able to use a device to read the information from your card and use it to withdraw the money in your account.

Fraud -Card Cloning

Card Cloning has become a real threat to consumers. Recently a friend of mine went to the machine and got the shock of her life when she discovered someone had withdrawn all the money  in her account! She spent an exhausting day at the bank trying to sort it out.

She had never had her card out of her possession so she was amazed that even without the physical card, thieves were able to get the information electronically from the card and use it to enter her account.

I spoke to a bank representative and he said one way consumers can protect themselves is by carrying their cards in specially made card protectors that block electronic attacks which can be bought in some computer stores and by being very observant when using ATM machines.

Protection

I try not to go to unfamiliar ATM’s and to always look at the number of persons waiting to use the machine. It is important to be observant of your surroundings if you feel suspicious of anyone hanging around the machine, it is best to leave.

When you are inside the machine you should still be alert. Carefully examine the opening where the card is inserted. Sometimes there is equipment used with a false opening left by the person who used the machine before you with the hopes of getting you to insert it incorrectly and remove your information.

It is important to plan ahead so that you know which ATM you will be using and so avoid going too late in the day. When it gets dark, consumers tend not to check their surroundings as carefully which can lead to tragedy.

When using a drive-up ATM, keep your engine running, your doors locked and leave enough room to maneuver between your car and the one ahead of you in the drive-up line.

If your card gets taken by the machine do not re-enter your PIN instead leave the area and immediately contact  a bank representative.

Be safe and protect yourself when using ATM’s!
How do you protect yourself?
Let me hear from you!

Tags: ATM machines