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Using your ATM/debit card is the simple, hassle-free way to get
cash, check account balances, make
purchases and more. To enjoy the many conveniences electronic
banking offers, you should make ATM/debit card security a
priority. Here are some important safety tips.
ATM/Debit Card Security
Treat your card like cash. Always
keep your card in a safe place.
Keep your "PIN" a secret.
ATM transactions and PIN debit purchases require the use of a secret
code known as a personal identification number or PIN. Memorize
your PIN, and never write it on your card or store it with your
card. Never let someone else enter your PIN for you.
Do not disclose information about your
card over the telephone.
No one needs to know your PIN...not even your financial
institution. If you perform transactions over the telephone
using your ATM/debit card, never disclose your PIN.
Do not expose your card's magnetic
stripe to magnetic objects.
Magnetic objects can damage your card.
Report a lost or stolen card at once.
Promptly call your financial institution if your card is lost or
stolen to reduce the chance that it will be used improperly.
Prompt notice of lost or stolen cards will also limit your potential
liability for unauthorized transactions.
Review your account statements.
Review all account statements from your financial institution
promptly, and report any errors (including transactions you believe
may be unauthorized) as soon as possible. Prompt notification
will limit your potential liability for unauthorized transactions.
ATM Security
Always observe the ATM surroundings
before conducting a transaction.
If anyone or anything appears to be suspicious, leave the area at
once. 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 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 is a good idea to take another person
with you when using an ATM, especially at night.
Minimize the time spent at the ATM when
conducting a transaction.
Have your card out and ready to use. Do not allow a stranger
to assist you in making a transaction, even if you have trouble or
your card gets stuck. When your transaction is complete, put
your card, money and receipt away and immediately leave the
area. Never count your money while at the ATM.
Block the view of others when using the
ATM.
Stand between the ATM and anyone waiting to use the terminal.
Shield the keypad as necessary when entering your PIN and
transaction amount.
If you see anyone or anything
suspicious,
cancel your transaction and leave the area at once.
If anyone follows you, go immediately to a crowded, well-lit area
and call the police.
Look for possible fraudulent devices
attached to the ATM.
If the ATM appears to have any attachments or alterations to the
card slot or keypad, do not use the ATM. If possible, report
the potential problem to the financial institution that operates the
ATM.
Drive-Up ATM Security
Keep your doors locked, windows up and engine running when in
line at a drive-up ATM.
Always leave enough room between vehicles to allow for a quick
exit should it become necessary.
Before rolling down the window to use an ATM, observe the entire
area.
Minimize the time spent at the ATM.
If anyone or anything appears suspicious, cancel your transaction
and drive away at once.
If anyone follows you after making an ATM transaction, drive
immediately to a crowded, well-lit area and call the police.
Point-of-Sale ( POS )
Security
Never allow the cashier or any other person to enter your PIN for
you, even if they are assisting you with the transaction.
Block the view of others when using a POS terminal.
Be certain the transaction is complete and review your receipt
before leaving.
If you receive cash back from a transaction, put it away before
leaving.
When using an outdoor POS terminal such as at a gas station,
always observe your surroundings before making a transaction.
When using an outdoor POS terminal, if anyone or anything appears
to be suspicious, leave the area at once.
It is a good idea to take another person with you when using an
outdoor POS terminal at night.
If anyone follows you after making a POS transaction, drive
immediately to a crowded, well-lit area and call the police.
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