ATM Keypad

ATM Security and Safety Tips

Before I disclose the secrets of securing your ATM cards, let me explain the possible methods you can be victim of money frauds. How we use Automatic Teller Machine? We insert our card in card slot of the machine, then enter 4 digit secure pin and choose the amount to withdraw, that's it. So here are the chances of risks.

How Our ATM Card or 4 Digit Secure Pin can be stolen?

1. Your friend or college may guess your password and steal your card from your pocket. He can use it to withdraw money and can put back the card in your pocket.
2. If you have remembered 4 digit secure pin by writing it somewhere in your diary or phonebook, it may be also stolen.
3. There may be small, portable wireless hidden camera in side the ATM machine to keep an eye on your figures and to record the pin code (Password) you enter for money withdrawal.
4. There may be transparent thin sheet on keypad to record the activities of your fingers and hence to retrieve the password you entered.
5. There also may be magnetic frame attached to the card slot and look like machine's part it self, so that when you wipe your card or enter into slot, it gets wiped with that thin magnetic tape and can be duplicated the information printed in magnetic form on your card's black strip.

So how to secure your ATM Transaction from frauds? Well, it's not too hard, by simply following below tips and keeping them in mind every time you make transaction, you are safe.

1. Never, Never disclose your ATM Pin to any of the person except your self. Even if he/she is your best friend. In any case if you have to disclose, immediately change the pin on you next ATM visit.
2. Always remember that 4 digit pin in your own memory and not on book, paper or diary which can put you on risk.
3. Do not use your card, if you see any abnormal device attached near ATM machine, may be near keypad or near card slot. In such a case, it is recommended to immediately contact the concerned person to inform about this abnormal device.
4. Always cover keypad of the machine by your body while entering the password to protect it from possible hidden camera or your friends standing with you.

Keep habit to change your password after few weeks or months and always use strong password, which is impossible to guess by your best friend also.