ATM Safety

ATM & Debit Card Safety Tips

Technology offers convenience, but it doesn’t replace common sense. These habits can keep you and your money safe while you’re using an ATM or Debit card.
 

For a list of Berkshire Bank ATMs, branch locations and hours, click here.

 

1. Protect your PIN (Personal Identification Number)

• Choose a PIN that is unique. Use a number other than your birthday, Social Security number or other obvious number.
• Do not share your PIN or account number with anyone.

2. Check out the environment as you approach the ATM.

• Avoid facilities in dark or remote places.
• Avoid free standing ATMs on street corners. It is best to use an ATM machine at a financial institution.     
• If bystanders seem to be loitering rather than conducting business, go to another machine or come back later.
• If someone seems to take interest in you or your transaction, report suspicious behavior to the police – but leave the area first.
• When using a drive-through ATM, keep all doors locked and all windows up, except for the driver’s window.

3. Examine the ATM before you use it.

• Never enter your PIN in any terminal that does not look genuine, has been modified, has a suspicious device attached, or is operating in a suspicious manner. See below for ATM Scams.

 

4. Be prepared to conduct your transaction when you approach the ATM.

• Have your card ready and know what transaction or transactions you want to conduct.
• Shield the screen and keypad with your body as you use the ATM to prevent others from seeing your PIN.
• Remove your cash, receipt and card after every transaction. Never leave receipts behind at the ATM.
• Have any deposits prepared before you approach the ATM. Make sure the ATM envelope has been accepted before leaving.

5. Pay attention to activity around the ATM as you leave.

• Secure any cash you withdraw before leaving the machine.

6. Report lost, stolen, or compromised cards IMMEDIATELY!

• If you believe that your card and/or PIN has been lost, stolen, compromised, or that someone has transfer money using your account without your permission, call 800-773-5601.
• Examine your statements promptly to identify unauthorized transactions.

ATM Safety Tips:

• Never give your card to someone at an ATM for any reason.
• Never let anyone assist you at an ATM, even if they appear to be a bank official or security personnel.
• Beware of people standing close to you when you are concluding transactions at an ATM.
• Ensure you hide your pin when keying it into an ATM.
• Never use an ATM that looks tampered with or damaged.
• Always use an ATM in a well-lit area.
• If possible, use an ATM that is monitored by a CCTV camera.