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,
but that doesn't mean they can't be a woman,
working in groups, older or younger.
ATM robbers
usually position themselves nearby, waiting
for a victim to approach and withdraw cash.
Most ATM robbery victims are women and are
alone when robbed. Most claim 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 person
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 person 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 driver’s 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 after getting
your cash.
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.
