Safe use of ATM and Credit Card

Your card and PIN

• Protect your ATM, credit or debit card from damage by keeping it in a safe place - don't allow it to be bent or scratched.
• Memorize your PIN - if you must write down your PIN, do not keep it in your wallet, purse or on the card itself.
• When selecting a PIN, avoid numbers and letters that can be easily identified or associated with you. Do not use your initials, birth date or telephone number.
• In case you lose your card - be sure to know the emergency phone numbers of your financial institution(s).
• When traveling, it is advisable that you only take one ATM card and memorize the PIN
• If you've lost your card or ATM card, contact immediately the financial institution that issued your card.

When using an ATM
Be alert to your surroundings

• If you find any signs of the ATM being physically tampered with or attached with external fittings or loose wirings, report to the bank and use another ATM.
• Look around and observe your surroundings - if the machine is poorly lit, or is in a hidden area, use another ATM.
• Have your card ready - avoid having to go through your wallet or purse to find your card.
• Make sure that anyone waiting to use the ATM after you cannot see the PIN or the transaction amount you are entering.
• Don't count your cash while standing at the ATM - put your cash, card and receipt away immediately.
• Cancel your transaction and leave immediately if you see anything suspicious.
• If you are using an indoor ATM that requires your card to open the door, avoid letting anyone come in with you that you do not know.
• Lock the car doors and roll up the other windows when you are using a drive-through ATM.
• Do not leave your keys or valuables in the car when using an ATM - and do not leave your car engine running.

Hold on to cards and receipts

• After completing an ATM or debit transaction, remember to take your card.
• Do not leave your ATM receipt behind - take it with you. Keep copies of your ATM receipts. Compare your ATM receipts with your monthly statement. It is the best way to guard against unauthorized use of your card, and it makes record keeping easier for you.
• When your card has become stuck inside an ATM, be suspicious of anyone offering their help. Criminals can obtain your PIN by several means ('shoulder surfing' - looking over your shoulder from behind or straightforward questioning), then retrieve your jammed card from the ATM and use it to withdraw funds. Report the incident to the bank immediately either by visiting the branch where the ATM is located or through its telephone hotline.

Safe use of ATM and Credit Card