ATM machines have become part our way of life. They offer convenience to those on the run, but at the same time offer an element of risk. Using a automated teller safely requires awareness and a little planning. Just because a ATM machine is open and available 24-hours a day doesn't mean it is always safe to use it.

ATM Robbery Facts
Many bank ATM crimes occur at night between 7pm and midnight while the machine only produces [a fraction|10%} of the daily business. Between 7pm and 4am, the ATMs handle only 11% of the total daily customers but suffer 60% of the crime.

Who Are the Crooks?
ATM thieves are usually males under 25 years of age and many of themwork alone. ATM robbers usually position themselves nearby and wait for a person to come along and withdraw money. Many ATM theft victims are women and many are alone when robbed. Most claim that they never saw the robber coming. Most ATM robbers used a pistol or claimed to have a concealed weapon when confronting the victim and taking their money.

Pick a Safe Location
Use only bank ATM kiosks in well-lighted, high-traffic areas. ATMs inside busy stores are considered safe. Don't use ATM machines that are obscureor hidden such as being located behind buildings, behind pillars, walls, or out of public view. Beware of obvious hiding spots like shrubbery or overgrown areas. ATM robbers like to surprise you and want no witnesses. Robbers like good escape routes like nearby freeway [exits|on-ramps} or high speed thru-streets.

Get a list of ATM locations from your bank branch and keep it handy. Choose an ATM that looks and feels safer, even if it is out of your way. Don't use ATMs at night. Take someone with you at night, if you can. When you come up on an ATM location, scan the area for any suspicious activity. If you see anyone suspicious that is standing nearby or sitting by themselves in a car, drive away. When you approach an ATM on foot be prepared and have your ATM card out. Memorize your personal PIN number to prevent loss and don't write it down. 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 while at the machine.

Be Alert
If anybody suspicious or seemingly dangerous approaches terminate your transaction and leave immediately. Tell the suspicious person in a loud, firm voice to "get away"|"back-off"] and leave you alone. This is designed to startle the person and give you time to flee. It is far easier to apologize later or suffer a little embarrassment for your fear than to become a robbery statistic. When you receive cash from the machine put it away immediately, extract your card, and get away.

If you use your auto at a bank drive-thru ATM machine the same rules apply. Make sure there are no obvious hiding places or suspicious people watching nearby. If there are, listen to your gut instinct and drive away. Keep your doors locked and 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. Thieves almost always appear from the rear on the drivers' 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 harm or worse. Get to a safe place and phone the police right away.


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