Dr. N. Rameshkumar provides safety precautions for using ATMs. Key precautions include: 1) Memorizing your PIN and not disclosing it to anyone; 2) Using well-lit ATMs located within banks or manned locations; 3) Checking for signs of tampering on card readers before using; and 4) Shielding your PIN entry and quickly putting away your receipt, card, and money after transactions.

1. Dr.N.RAMESHKUMAR
Assistant Professor
Department of Commerce with
Compute Applications
PSG College of Arts & Science
Coimbatore

2. ATM SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
 Don't write down your PIN number
anywhere. Memorize it. Further,
don't disclose it to anyone, not even
the bank officials.
 Preferably use an ATM which is
within bank premises or manned 24
hrs by a security guard

3.  Avoid using ATMs which are in
isolated places, dimly lit locations or
on the streets.
 Do not use the ATM where the card
reader appears to be tampered with,
broken, scratched, damaged, sticky
with glue, has extra wiring or loose
parts around the slot, difficulty in
inserting the card etc. These could be
signs of skimming machine having
been installed

4.  Register yourself for SMS alert
whenever your account is
accessed.
 Don't throw away the ATM
transaction slips until you verify
the transactions in the bank
statement every month.
 Change your PIN numbers as
often as convenient

5.  Focus on what you are doing.
Don’t use a cell phone or do
anything else that diverts your
attention.
 Never allow a stranger to assist
you in conducting an ATM
transaction, even if you have
trouble.
 If the ATM retains your card,
notify the branch as soon as
possible.

6.  Prevent others from seeing
your PIN entry by using your
body or hand to shield the
ATM keypad.
 When you are finished, put
your receipt, card, and money
away quickly. Count cash
later in the safety of your
vehicle, home, or other secure
area

7.  Sign your card on the
signature panel as soon as
you receive it. Always keep
the card in a safe place.
 When selecting a PIN, do
not use your birth date,
telephone number, or Social
Security number.

8.  Do not disclose information
about your card in response
to an unsolicited e-mail or
request.
 Do not use an ATM if you
feel the surroundings are
unsafe or notice any
suspicious persons lurking
around.

9.  After completion of
transaction ensure that
welcome screen is
displayed on ATM screen.
 If cash is not dispensed the
ATM does not display
“cash out” please report to
the Bank on the number
mentioned in the Notice
Board