ATM SECURITY

ATM cash machines have been incorporated in our way of life.

They offer a real convenience to those on the run but at the same time offer an element of risk. Using an ATM machine safely requires awareness and a little planning. Just because an ATM machine is open and available 24-hours a day doesn't mean it is safe to use it.

• Most ATM robberies occur at night between 8:00 PM and midnight.
• ATM robbers are usually males under 25 years of age and most work alone.
• ATM robbers usually position themselves nearby waiting for a victim to approach and withdraw cash.
• Most ATM robbery victims are women and were alone when robbed.
• Most claim that they never saw the robber coming.
• Most ATM robbers used a gun or claimed to have a concealed weapon when confronting the victim and demanding their cash.

If you or your family members use ATM cash machines on a regular basis, here are some tips that can make the process a little safer:

• Use only ATM machines in well-lighted, high-traffic areas. Don't use ATM machines that are remote or hidden such as being located behind buildings, behind pillars, walls, or away from public view.
  
• Beware of obvious hiding places like shrubbery or overgrown trees.
  
• ATM robbers like to have the element of surprise and no witnesses.
  
• Robbers like good escape routes like nearby freeway on-ramps or high speed thoroughfares.
  
• Choose an ATM that looks and 'feels' safer, even if it is a couple of miles out of the way.
  
• Try and limit your use to daylight hours. Take someone with you after hours, if you can.
  
• When you drive up to an ATM location, scan the area for any suspicious persons.
  
• If you see anyone suspicious standing nearby or sitting in a car, drive away.
  
• When you approach an ATM on foot be prepared and have your access card ready.
  
• Memorize your personal PIN number to prevent loss and speed the transaction.
  
• After inserting your card and your PIN number keep an eye out behind you.
  
• Never accept an offer to help or request for help from a suspicious male ahead of you at the machine.
  
• If anyone suspicious or seemingly dangerous approaches terminate your transaction and leave immediately, even if it means running away and leaving your ATM card in the machine.
  
• First, tell the suspicious male in a loud, firm voice to "back-off" and leave you alone. This is designed to startle the person and give you time to flee, if appropriate.
  
• When you receive cash from the machine put it away immediately, extract your card, and walk away.
  
• If you use your car at a drive-thru ATM machine the same rules apply.
  
• Keep the car in gear, with your foot firmly on the brake, while using the ATM machine.
  
• Keep a close eye on your rear and side view mirrors during the transaction. Robbers almost always approach from the rear on the drivers side.
  
• If you see anyone approaching, drive off even if it means leaving your ATM card behind.
  
• If you are confronted by an armed robber, just give up your money without argument. The cash is not worth serious injury or death.
  
• Get to a safe place and call the police immediately.
  
• If lights around the ATM are not working, don't use that machine
  
• Avoid ATM machines adjacent to obvious hiding places
  
• Have your card ready and leave quickly, not counting your cash in public
  
• Beware of offers for help from strangers during an ATM transaction
  
• Don't fight with or attempt to follow the robber
  
• Drive or walk to a safe place and immediately call the police