The ATM (auto teller machine) is a great invention that has really revolutionized the way customers interact with their banks. It is no longer necessary to go into a bank branch and fill out paperwork to get money out of your account.

Unfortunately, as is often the case, criminals will take technology that is intended to make people’s lives easier and use it for their own dishonest benefit. ATM card theft and skimming have become favorite ways to rob innocent people of their money.

Should we then avoid using ATMs? Obviously this is not practical. There are times when all of us will need to draw cash for various purposes, but observing a few basic guidelines will make this exercise a lot safer for you:

• Avoid using ATMs in lonely or dark locations. Machines located at the bank branch or those inside secure supermarkets, convenience stores, gas stations etc
• Your bank should have a 24 hour helpline for reporting card problems, theft, suspicious activity and out of order machines. Get the number and save it into your cell phone so you don’t have to waste valuable time looking for it in the event of an incident.
• Before using an ATM, look around for anybody that looks as if they are hanging around watching the machine or that looks suspicious or out of place.
• Check the machine for extra video cameras in places they don’t usually appear, especially if they are mounted in such a way that they cover the keypad.
• Look out for a plastic strip or anything else protruding from the card slot as this may be evidence of a card jamming or skimming device.
• If your card jams in the machine, do not leave the area. Use your cell phone to call the bank’s help line and have your card blocked.