Here Are Some Tips To Protect Yourself From ATM Frauds

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There have been rising instances of frauds at automated teller machines (ATMs). Ensure that you are not one of them and follow these tips. 

  • If an ATM site is in a remote corner of the street and looks desolate, avoid using it. Find a brightly lit and well-kept ATM.
  • Don’t enter ATM outlets if you find people inside. If they are using the ATM, let them complete their transaction. If they are just loitering inside, ask them to move out. If you suspect something fishy, leave the site.
  • If you have to urgently withdraw cash, before starting the transaction, check your surroundings and the ATM for any hidden camera.
  • Look at the card reader. If you see something looking abnormal, tug at the card reader to check for any ‘skimmer’ (a device to read your card data) attached to the card reader. Check the slot from which cash comes out of the ATM. Don’t use the ATM if you notice anything out of ordinary. 

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  • Never give your card or PIN to anyone, even to your own child, spouse or sibling. There have been numerous instances where a cardholder’s relatives have defrauded the cardholder using his/her card and PIN.
  • Don’t take help from strangers while using the ATM. There are some who might be waiting for this opportunity to con you. If there are people right behind you or at your side when you are transacting, please ask them to move away.
  • While entering your PIN on the ATM, cover the movement of your fingers on the PIN pad, with the other hand, purse, book, mobile or any other thing that you may have with you. Some ATMs have a ‘PIN shield’ which is like a flap on both sides of the PIN pad. This is mainly to protect your PIN entry from the hidden cameras.
  • However, fraudsters often install a small camera on the inside part of the flaps. So if you see ATMs which have flaps on either side of the PIN pad, please put your hand under the flaps and check for any hidden cameras.
  • Please stand as close as possible to the ATM. This will ensure your body covers the activities you do on the ATM and nobody from behind is able to see your account balance, your PIN or the amount you are withdrawing.
  • Count the cash you receive, put it in your wallet or bag, press the cancel button and wait till the ATM screen shows the ‘Welcome’ screen before you move away. This ensures your transaction is fully completed and no one can access your account through your card and PIN. 

While withdrawing cash from the ATM is a simple process, you can make it safer if you keep the precautions in mind. 

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