Electronic banking at ATMs is a fast, convenient way to withdraw cash, make deposits; check account balances, transfer funds and more. If you use ATMs to conduct financial transactions, you must make security a priority. Here are some important steps you can take to make ATM security your business.

Keep Your ATM Card Secure

Treat your ATM card like cash. Always keep your card in a safe place. It's a good idea to store your card in a card sleeve. The sleeve protects the card's magnetic stripe.

Keep your "secret code" a secret.
Your ATM card will work only with your personal identification number (PIN). When choosing your PIN, don't use dates of birth, parts of your social security number, addresses or phone numbers. Memorize your code. Never write it on your card or store it with the card. Never tell your code to anyone. And never let someone else enter your code for you.

Take your receipt with you. Do not leave it at or near the ATM.
You can get a receipt every time you make on ATM transaction. Verify each transaction by checking the receipts against your monthly account statements to guard against ATM fraud.

Do not give out any information about your ATM card over the telephone.
No one needs to know your secret code. Not even your financial institution.

Report a lost or stolen card at once.
Promptly report a lost or stolen card to reduce the chance that it will be used improperly. You will be issued another card.

Security At ATMs

Always observe your surroundings before conducting an ATM transaction.
If you drive to an ATM, park as close as possible to the terminal. Observe the entire area from the safety of your car before getting out. If anyone or anything appears to be suspicious, leave the area at once.

If an ATM is obstructed from view or poorly lit, go to another ATM.
If possible, report the problem to the financial institution that operates the ATM.

It's a good idea to take a companion along when using an ATM, especially at night.

Minimize time spent at the ATM by having your card out and ready to use.
Do not let anyone see how much money you withdrew and never count your money while at the ATM. Never allow a stranger to assist you in conducting an ATM transaction even if you have trouble or if your card is stuck.

Stand between the ATM and anyone waiting to use the terminal so that others cannot see your secret code or transaction amount.
Once you have completed your transaction, take your money, card and receipt and immediately move away from the terminal.

If you see anyone or anything suspicious while conducting a transaction, cancel your transaction and leave immediately.
If anyone follows you after making an ATM transaction, go immediately to a crowded, well-lit area and call the police.

Look for possible fraudulent devices attached to the ATM.
If the ATM looks different or appears to have any attachments over the card slot or PIN pad, do not use the ATM and if possible, contact the financial institution.

Additional Security Precautions for Drive-Up ATMs:

• Keep the doors locked, windows up and engine running at all times when waiting in line at a drive-up ATM.
• When possible, leave enough room between cars to allow for a quick exit should it become necessary.
• Before rolling down the window to use an ATM, observe the entire surrounding area. If anyone or anything appears to be suspicious, drive away at once.
• Minimize time spent at the ATM by having your card out and ready to use. Once your transaction is completed, take your money, card and receipt and immediately drive away from the terminal. While conducting a transaction, if anyone or anything appears suspicious, cancel your transaction and leave immediately.
• If anyone follows you after making your ATM transaction, drive immediately to a crowded, well-lit area and call the police.

Following these guidelines can improve your security whenever you use an ATM. If you have questions about ATM security, please ask.