Protect Yourself at the ATM

Do you always observe your surroundings before you walk up to an ATM? Do you have your card in hand when you approach the machine? Is your passenger window up and door locked when you’re waiting in line at a drive-through ATM? If you think these sound like “no-brainer” precautions, you’re absolutely right, but distractions—a cell phone conversation, a looming deadline or that appointment across town—can make us forget we’re vulnerable to unwelcome and fraudulent activity.

The Global ATM Security Alliance and Fair Isaac Corp. offer some simple measures you can take to help ensure your safety when using your ATM/debit card.

• Memorize your PIN. If you must write it down, never carry it with your card. DO NOT WRITE YOUR PIN ANYWHERE ON YOUR CARD.
• Do not disclose your number to anyone, including family members and/or the police.
• Scan the ATM for anything unusual. If it looks different or appears to have any alterations or attachments to the card slot or PIN pad, use a different machine.
• If you feel the ATM is not working normally, press the Cancel key and withdraw your card and then proceed to another ATM. Never force your card into the card slot.
• Stand squarely between the ATM and anyone behind you so that others can’t see your personal identification number (PIN) or observe your transaction amount. You may wish to use the knuckle of your middle finger to key in the PIN.
• If the ATM is poorly lit or obstructed from view, visit another ATM. Consider taking a companion if you’re using the ATM after dark.
• Keep your printed transaction record so that you can compare your ATM receipts to your monthly statement.
  USING YOUR PIN IN REVERSE IS NOT A SECURITY OPTION. Do not put yourself in danger by trying to employ this tactic.

Drive-up ATMs

• Keep doors locked, windows up and the engine running when waiting in line.
• Keep enough room between your car and the car in front of you in case you have to pull away in the event of a security threat.
• If anyone follows you after you’ve completed your transaction at the ATM, proceed to a crowded, well-lit area and call the police.

Point-of-Sale (POS) Security

• Never allow anyone to see you enter your PIN number into the keypad, even if they are assisting you with the transaction.
• Always make sure the transaction is complete and you have a receipt before you leave the POS terminal.
• If you received cash back, put it away before leaving.

If you feel you have been the victim of fraud or notice any unusual activity on your account, immediately contact the Credit Union at 800.968.5626.