How to protect yourself at the ATM

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Over time, ATM cards have become a staple in modern banking. Many people even see ATMs as a necessity these days. With the many tangible benefits associated with being able to do banking and withdraw cash from a 24-hour access machine, it's no wonder.

No longer are people confined to what was traditionally known as “banker’s hours”, long before online banking emerged, it was the development of ATMs that allowed the flexibility to access cash and obtain bank information at any given time.

While electronic banking has also become standard, ATMs are still heavily used because they can do one thing online banking can’t – distribute cash.

While highly convenient, like any other technology, using ATMs comes with a level of risk. But don't let this stop you. As long as the threats are understood, you can take steps to reduce the chance of any potential problems.

Be aware of your surroundings

When using an ATM, always be aware of your surroundings. Do not use ATMs in dark or isolated areas if you are alone, and always be pay attention to everything around you. Look for people watching the machine from a distance, either on foot or in a car, and be sure you aren't followed when you finish your ATM transaction. If anything seems off, do not use that machine, walk away and find another ATM in a safer location.

Learn about ATM skimmers

Unfortunately, the fraud of ATM skimming is not only on the upswing but is also becoming more sophisticated in nature as technology progresses. What this scam entails is a device being inserted into an ATM machine and it captures the information stored on the card and is retrieved by the thief. Sometimes these devices can be detected if you examine the machine carefully prior to inserting your card; however, some modern gadgets can be placed inside the ATM machine making detection more difficult. Some statistics say in the first part of 2015 skimming jumped up 174 percent on bank properties and a whopping 315 percent on non-bank ATMs.

Skimming is often difficult to find, but knowing what to look for and learning how to avoid falling victim to skimming scams can reduce possible risk. If you ever receive an error message during an ATM transaction, check with your bank to ensure the machine is working as it should be and has not been tampered with by someone with nefarious intentions.

Protect your PIN and tuck cash away

To preserve the integrity of your PIN, do not write the number down and carry it on your person. Your PIN is the virtual key to the entry of your bank account and, if someone steals your card number and has your PIN, he or she can access and steal your money. When you insert your card and enter your PIN, cover the pinpad with your hand to avoid potential prying eyes or a hidden camera. Scammers frequently strategically place cameras to be used in conjunction with a skimmer.

After you have withdrawn your cash, put it away until you are in a safe place. It is not a good practice to count money at the machine to draw attention to yourself. It is more secure to play it safe and tuck your cash away. Count it when you get back into your car or move to another secure location.

Prepare paperwork away from ATM

Bankrate.com suggests preparing all transaction paperwork before you walk or drive up to the ATM machine, this way it minimizes the time you spend in front of the machine. Additionally, they recommend if you decide to use a drive-up ATM, lock your doors, do not turn off your car, and be sure to leave enough space between yourself and the car in front of you. This way you aren’t “locked” in and unable to escape if needed.

ATMs are a great convenience, but using these machines do carry some risk. However, practicing safe ATM habits and being aware of scams and other frauds can help mitigate any of the potential problems. With these factors in mind, you can enjoy the benefits associated with automatic teller machines.