By Damilola Faustino
ATMs are a great convenience, but they can compromise your safety. A robber looking for an easy prey only has to stake out an ATM in a low-traffic, dimly lit area and attack you after withdrawing your hard-earned cash. To prevent stories that touch, here are some don’ts you should know:
- Do not use an ATM that appears unusual looking or offers options with which you are not familiar or comfortable.
- Do not allow people to look over your shoulder as you enter your PIN. Memorize your PIN; never write it on the back of your card.
- Do not wear expensive jewellery or take other valuables to the ATM. This is an added incentive to the assailant.
- Never count cash at the machine or in public. Wait until you are in your car or another secure place.
- Prepare all transaction paperwork prior to your arrival at the ATM. This will minimize the amount of time spent at the machine.
- Closely monitor your bank statements, as well as your balances, and immediately report any problems to your bank.
- When possible, use ATMs during the daytime. Most ATM robberies occur at night, with the highest risk between midnight and 4 a.m.
- Do not withdraw large amounts of cash. After making a withdrawal immediately put it into your wallet or purse before leaving the ATM.
Read also: Steps To Achieving Financial Freedom
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