ATM Safety Tips
Using your ATM/debit card is the simple, hassle-free way to get cash, check account balances, transfer funds, make purchases and more. To enjoy the many conveniences electronic banking offers, you should make ATM/debit card security a priority. Here are some important safety tips.
ATM/Debit Card Security
- Treat your card like cash. Always keep your card in a safe place.
- Keep your secret code a secret.
- ATM transactions and PIN debit purchases require the use of a secret code known as a personal identification number of PIN. Memorize your PIN, and never write it on your card or store it with your card.
- Never let someone else enter your PIN for you.
- Do not disclose information about your card over the telephone.
- No one needs to know your PIN¬ even the credit union. If you perform transactions over the telephone using your ATM/debit card, never disclose your PIN.
- Do not expose your cards magnetic stripe to magnetic objects.
- Magnetic objects can damage your card.
- Report a lost or stolen card at once.
- Promptly call the credit union if your card is lost or stolen to reduce the chance that it will be used improperly.
- Prompt notice of lost or stolen cards will also limit your potential liability for unauthorized transactions.
- Review your account statements.
- Review all account statements from the credit union promptly, and report any errors (including transactions you believe may be unauthorized) as soon as possible. Again, a prompt notice will limit your potential liability for unauthorized transactions.
Drive-Up ATM Security
- Keep your doors locked, windows up and engine running when in line at a drive-up ATM
- Always leave enough room between vehicles to allow for a quick exit should it become necessary.
- Before rolling down the window to use an ATM, observe the entire area.
- Minimize the time spent at the ATM.
- If anyone or anything appears suspicious, cancel the transaction and drive away at once.
- If anyone follows you after making an ATM transaction, drive immediately to a crowded, well-lit area and call the police.
Point-of-Sale (POS) Security
- Never allow the cashier or any other person to enter your PIN for you, even if they are assisting you with the transaction.
- Block the view of others when using a POS terminal.
- Be certain the transaction is complete and review your receipt before leaving.
- If you receive cash back from a transaction, put it away before leaving.
- When using an outdoor POS terminal such as at a gas station, always observe your surroundings before making a transaction.
- When using an outdoor POS terminal, if anyone or anything appears to be suspicious, leave the area at once.
- It is a good idea to take another person with you when using an outdoor POS terminal at night.
- If anyone follows you after making a POS transaction, drive immediately to a crowded, well-lit area and call the police.