An ATM, or automated teller machine, allows customers to complete financial transactions without interacting with a human teller. ATMs use magnetic stripe or smartcard ATM cards along with a personal identification number for security. The first ATM was developed in the 1960s in the UK. ATMs now come in various forms, including mobile, drive-in, on-site, and off-site models. Beyond withdrawing cash, ATMs can be used to access bank statements, purchase postage stamps or tickets, and more. Users should take precautions like shielding their PIN and not sharing private information when using an ATM.