Safe banking at ATMs
Capt Pearl van Staad, spokesperson for Brakpan police also advised members of stokvels and similar clubs never to distribute the money in public.
Residents are advised to be extra vigilant when withdrawing money at an ATM over the holidays.
Capt Pearl van Staad, spokesperson for Brakpan police, offered the following safety tips:
• Be alert and conscious of your surroundings when using the ATM.
• Never give your card or PIN (personal identification number) to anyone, for any reason.
• Don’t write your PIN on the card or anything that is kept with the card.
• Do not insert your card until asked to do so by the display screen.
• Never use an ATM with a blank screen and, if the ATM is obscured from view or poorly lit, leave immediately and find another machine.
• Stand close to the ATM and use your body and hand as a shield to make sure nobody sees you keying in your PIN.
• Keep your hand over the card slot to make sure nobody can swap or take your card.
• Never accept help from strangers when using an ATM. You should be wary of strangers asking for help.
• Criminals work in teams – one will distract you, while the other steals your card or money.
• If your card is retained (swallowed) by the ATM, it is advisable to phone your bank immediately and to stop your card.
• Never allow a bystander to call the bank on your behalf – they could be tricking you into thinking your card has been stopped.
• Guards are placed at ATMs to discourage criminal activities and cannot help you with transactions.
• If you need help, ask a bank official.
• It is advisable to set a daily ATM withdrawal limit at your branch.
“It is also important to make sure you are not being followed from the bank,” said Van Staad.
“If you notice suspicious-looking people or a car following you, call police for assistance.”
Van Staad also advised members of stokvels and similar clubs never to distribute the money in public.
“Rather have the money deposited into each member’s bank account,” she said.
Also read:
Financial tips for surviving the holiday season
Women urged to be extra security conscious and safety savvy
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