Because of the variety of ATMs, the unique characteristics
of each installation, and crime considerations at
each location, no single formula can guarantee the
security of ATM customers. Therefore, it is necessary
for ATM customers to consider the environment around
each ATM and various procedures for remaining safe
when using an ATM.
Criminals select their victims and targets, focusing
on the unaware or unprepared. Criminals are also
drawn to environmental conditions that enhance the
opportunity to successfully complete their crime.
The attitude and demeanor you convey can have a
tremendous effect on potential assailants. There
are a number of things you can do to increase your
personal security and reduce your risk of becoming
an ATM crime victim.
The following crime prevention tips can help make
the use of ATM’s safer for everyone.
* Walk purposefully and with confidence. Give the
appearance that you are totally aware of your surroundings
* Be aware of your total environment and what is
going on around you. Criminals tend to avoid people
who have this type of demeanor
* Perform mental exercises and think out what you
would do in different crime or personal security
situations
* Follow your instincts. If you feel you are in
danger, respond immediately. Remember that your
personal safety is the first priority
ATM Selection Considerations
The law sets minimum standards for ATM lighting,
procedures for evaluating the safety of ATM's and
requires notices to ATM users outlining basic safety
precautions for using ATM's. Although ATM environmental
design issues are covered in the law, there are
other considerations that an ATM customer needs
to consider prior to selecting and using an ATM.
For example:
* Do not select an ATM at the corner of a building.
Corners create a blind area in close proximity to
the customer's transaction. Select an ATM located
near the center of a building. An ATM further from
the corner reduces the element of surprise by an
assailant and increases effective reaction time
by the user
* Identify an ATM with maximum natural surveillance
and visibility from the surrounding area. This will
create a perceived notion of detection by a criminal
and increases the potential for witnesses
* Select an ATM at a location void of barriers blocking
the line of sight of the ATM. This includes shrubbery,
landscaping, signs and decorative partitions or
dividers. Barriers provide hiding areas for would-be
assailants
* Select an ATM that is in a well-lighted location
* Whenever possible, select an ATM that is monitored
or patrolled by a security officer
* Select an ATM with a wide-angle transaction camera
and/or a continuous transaction surveillance camera.
Consult the bank or location management for this
information
* Solicit prior criminal activity statistics from
law enforcement for the ATM site and surrounding
neighborhood
* Avoid ATM locations with large perimeter parking
lots and numerous ingress and egress points
Considerations Prior To and During Transactions
* Always watch for suspicious persons or activity
around an ATM. Be aware of anyone sitting in a parked
car in close proximity to or at a distance from
the ATM location
* If you notice anything strange, leave and return
some other time. Even if you have already started
a transaction, cancel it and leave.
* Maintain a small supply of deposit envelopes at
home, in your car or office. Prepare all transaction
paperwork prior to your arrival at the ATM site.
This will minimize the amount of time spent at the
ATM
* Maintain an awareness of your surroundings throughout
the entire transaction. Do not become so involved
with your transaction that you are not aware of
changing conditions in the area
* Do not wear expensive jewelry or take other valuables
to the ATM. This is an added incentive to an assailant
* If you get cash - put it away right immediately.
Do not stand at the ATM and count it
* Never accept offers of assistance with the ATM
from strangers; ask the bank for help
* Never lend your ATM card to anyone; treat it as
if were cash or a credit card
* If you use a drive-up ATM, ascertain your vehicle
doors and windows are locked
* During evening hours consider taking a companion
along, park close to the ATM in a well lighted area
and lock your car. If the lights around the ATM
are not working properly, do not use it
* When leaving an ATM location make sure you are
not being followed. If you are being followed, drive
immediately to a police, sheriff or fire station,
crowded area, well-lighted location or open business.
Flash your lights and sound your horn to bring attention
to your situation
* If you are involved in a confrontation and the
attacker is armed with a weapon and demands your
money or valuables, GIVE IT TO THE SUSPECT. Do not
resist, property may be recovered later or replaced
Fraud Considerations
* Memorize your Personal Identification Number (PIN).
Do not write it down or keep it in your wallet or
purse. Do not tell anyone else your PIN ANYONE !!
(including bank employees, the police, etc.)
* Shield the ATM keypad from anyone who may be standing
or parked nearby or anyone crowding you in an attempt
to view your PIN and/or transaction. Use your body
as a shield if necessary while you enter your access
code
* Make sure you retain your transaction receipt.
Do not throw the receipt away at the ATM site
* The National Consumers League has opened a toll-free
number to provide information on ATM frauds and
scams. The National Fraud Information Center at
1-800-876-7060 employs counselors who will refer
consumers to the proper agency for reporting a fraud
or scam
* Immediately report any stolen or lost ATM card
to the proper entities
As far as your security is concerned, you can never
be too careful, too prepared or too aware. Share
this information with family and friends. Schedule
family discussions and practice regularly to ensure
that everyone you know is safe and informed.
