Tips to Stay Safe at an ATM

First of all, listen to your gut - if you feel unsafe or uncertain for any reason - do not continue with your transaction, cancel it, take your card and leave.  Your personal safety is far more important than trying to withdraw funds at that time.  Once you are in a safe place call the police and/or financial institution to alert them.

An urban myth advises that by putting your PIN in backwards, you will be able to continue your transaction and the police will be called to your location. This is not true. All that will happen is your PIN will be rejected and you will be prompted to enter it again.  The police will not be called. 

Remember:

• Whenever you can, make sure the ATM you are visiting is well lit and you feel comfortable, if it is not find a location elsewhere or get cash back from a purchase
• Report any suspicious activity to the police
• Do not count or handle your money openly
• Keep your PIN in a safe place, memorize it
• If approached, do what the robber asks – call the police as soon as you safely can