“Be alert and conscious of your surroundings when using the ATM and never give your card or PIN to anyone, for any reason. ”
This advice is from Randfontein SAPS spokesperson Captain Appel Ernst who urges people to be vigilant continuously when using ATMs.
“People need to know that criminals are literally everywhere and they need to be vigilant at all times, especially when using ATMs.
“Whilst making withdrawals, people should not insert their cards until prompted to do so on the display screen and never should use an ATM with a blank screen.
“If the ATM is obscured from view or poorly lit, leave immediately and find another ATM,” says Ernst.
She also advises that people refrain from writing down their pin numbers on the card or on anything that is kept with the card.
“When making a withdrawal, make sure to stand close to the ATM and use your body and hand as shield to make sure nobody sees you keying in your pin.”
Ernst urges people never to accept help from strangers and to be wary of strangers asking for help.
“Criminals work in teams – one distracts you while the other steals your card or money.
“With that being said, if your card happens to be retained (swallowed) by the ATM, it is advisable to phone your bank’s toll free stop card line immediately and stop your card.
“Never allow a bystander to do this on your behalf because they might trick you into thinking that your card has been stopped,” says Ernst.
According to her, guards are placed at ATMs to discourage criminal activities and therefore cannot help you with transactions.
“If you need help, ask a bank official.”
