Millions of ATM transactions are successfully carried out every day around the world without problems or interference by criminals and fraudsters. The ATM has been used safely for over three decades and has a proud safety and service record throughout that period. Only a tiny fraction of criminal incidents occur at ATMs in comparison to the huge volume of usage at the more than 1.2 million ATMs worldwide.
While ATMs have added some convenience to our lives, a few risks have also popped up. ATMs give criminals another opportunity to get at your money, and you should take steps to reduce your risk. Most of us can stay out of trouble with simple common sense, but you should periodically review some proven tactics.
Most of you would have read in the news about theft, robbery, vandalism inside and outside the ATM. To avoid being a victim, it is important to take the following precautions:
- Avoid exposing your ATM PIN
- Avoid going to ATM in a secluded area or night time without the presence of others including security guard
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- Check the surrounding vicinity for suspicious loiterers
- To park your car at a secured area - most victims were attacked after they left the ATM and were walking towards their car. Lock your car immediately once you enter it
- To count your money in case it is short and remember to remove your ATM card
- Keep your transaction slip for proof - you can request your bank for CCTV playback for further evidence
- Some victims are tail-gated till they reach their house or another destination - always check your rear mirror
- Do not wear a cap, dark spectacles (sunglasses) or other head coverings - this is to enable the CCTV to capture a good image of the user in the event of any dispute
- Avoid keeping money in the car which is left unattended
- Do not give your ATM card and/or PIN to another person
- Avoid withdrawing large sums of cash - some ATMs can dispense between RM 3,000-RM 5,000
- For those depositing large sums of cash into the cash deposit machine, you should take extra precautions
- Carry a pepper spray if necessary for self protection
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