Tips: Safely Using An ATM

  • Mar 05, 2009

The more than 420,000 automated teller machines (ATMs) in the U.S. and Canada provide a tremendous convenience to consumers, allowing them to withdraw cash anytime of the day or night.

But they can also attract robbers looking for easy prey.

According to figures from the Department of Justice, losses from an ATM robbery average between $100 and $200. Also, about 15 percent of victims are injured during the robbery.

Hank Monaco, vice president for ADT Security Services, which helps to protect half of the country's top 50 national and regional bank holding companies, said it is possible to significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim.

"Anytime cash is readily available, you will find criminals looking to take advantage - ATMs are no exception," Monaco said. "But by being aware and using common sense you should be able to conduct your business safely."

According to one ATM service organization, the majority of Americans between the ages of 25 to 49 use an ATM an average of eight times a month. Monaco offered these safety tips for customers who use ATMs.

  • Pay close attention to your surroundings. Make sure the area around the ATM is well lit and not hidden from the road by landscaping, decorative partitions or buildings. If anyone looks suspicious in the area, use an ATM at another location or come back later.
  • When possible, use ATMs during the daytime. Most ATM robberies occur at night, with the highest risk between midnight and 4 a.m.
  • If possible, take a friend with you to the ATM or use it when there are other customers in the area. Most robberies are committed against a single victim by a lone robber.
  • If while using an ATM you feel a person behind you in line is too close, ask him or her to step back. If he or she does not, cancel your transaction and come back later.
  • Limit your time at the ATM. Fill out transaction paperwork in your car and have your ATM card and other documents ready as you approach the ATM.
  • Do not withdraw large amounts of cash. After making a withdrawal, immediately put it into your wallet or purse before leaving the ATM.
  • When using a drive-up ATM, keep your car engine running, the doors locked and all windows up except for the one you are using. Leave enough room to maneuver between your car and the one ahead in the line.

If, despite following these tips, you are still confronted by a robber, Monaco said you should comply.

"Security experts emphasize that you should never fight with the robber," he said. "Note the robber's description as you give him the money. Then get away as soon as it is safe and call the police."

Featured

  • Security Industry Association Announces the 2026 Security Megatrends

    The Security Industry Association (SIA) has identified and forecasted the 2026 Security Megatrends, which form the basis of SIA’s signature annual Security Megatrends report defining the top 10 factors influencing both near- and long-term change in the global security industry. Read Now

  • The Future of Access Control: Cloud-Based Solutions for Safer Workplaces

    Access controls have revolutionized the way we protect our people, assets and operations. Gone are the days of cumbersome keychains and the security liabilities they introduced, but it’s a mistake to think that their evolution has reached its peak. Read Now

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

  • Improve Incident Response With Intelligent Cloud Video Surveillance

    Video surveillance is a vital part of business security, helping institutions protect against everyday threats for increased employee, customer, and student safety. However, many outdated surveillance solutions lack the ability to offer immediate insights into critical incidents. This slows down investigations and limits how effectively teams can respond to situations, creating greater risks for the organization. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • ResponderLink

    ResponderLink

    Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), an Alarm.com company and a global leader in gunshot detection solutions, has introduced ResponderLink, a groundbreaking new 911 notification service for gunshot events. ResponderLink completes the circle from detection to 911 notification to first responder awareness, giving law enforcement enhanced situational intelligence they urgently need to save lives. Integrating SDS’s proven gunshot detection system with Noonlight’s SendPolice platform, ResponderLink is the first solution to automatically deliver real-time gunshot detection data to 911 call centers and first responders. When shots are detected, the 911 dispatching center, also known as the Public Safety Answering Point or PSAP, is contacted based on the gunfire location, enabling faster initiation of life-saving emergency protocols.

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.