NEWCASTLE KZN: Here’s what you need to know about bank safety, according to police

With ATM robberies on the rise once more, the Newcastle SAPS has issued safety tips to help you avoid becoming a victim.

Here’s what you need to know, according to Lizzy Arumugam of the Newcastle SAPS Corporate Communications office:

• When using an ATM, stay alert and aware of your surroundings
• Never, under any circumstances, give your card or PIN (Personal Identification Number) to anyone
• Do not write your PIN on the card or anything else that is kept with it
• Do not insert your card until the display screen prompts you to do so
• Never use an ATM with a blank screen, and if the screen is obscured or poorly lit, leave immediately and find another ATM
• Stand close to the ATM and use your body and hand as a shield to prevent anyone from seeing you enter your pin
• Also, keep your hand over the card slot to prevent anyone from swiping or taking your card
• When using an ATM, never accept assistance from strangers. You should be wary of strangers who approach you for assistance
• Criminals work in groups, with one distracting you while the other steals your credit card or money
• If your card is retained (swallowed) by the ATM, call your bank’s toll-free stop card line immediately and cancel your card
• Allowing a bystander to call the toll-free stop card line on your behalf may lead to you believing your card has been stopped
• Guards are stationed at ATMs to deter criminal activity and, as a result, cannot assist you with transactions
• If you require assistance, contact a bank official
• It is recommended that you set a daily ATM withdrawal limit at your branch.

Contact us

WhatsApp: 082 874 5550

Email: Reveshni Douglas (Editor) at reveshni@caxton.co.za

Make sure you follow us for regular updates: