Tips for safe use of ATMs
03/04/2025
According to the Report on habits in the use of cash, this means of payment is still the main one among the population in Spain. 57% of the population uses cash on a daily basis and 59% have it as their main means of payment.
Of all the cash we use, 75% is obtained through ATMs. Today we are going to review some steps for its safe use, because sometimes frauds can be carried out in this environment, such as:
- Cloning cards. Criminals can install devices on the ATMs card reader to clone your card data. In addition, they usually place hidden cameras to capture your PIN while you enter it.
- Traps in the cash dispenser. Sometimes, they install mechanisms to retain the money that the ATM delivers, making you believe that there was a mistake, when in reality they have intervened the dispenser.
- Social engineering. Scammers may try to verbally manipulate you near the cashier, either asking you for help or distracting you to get your details.
To operate safely in a ATM it is key to have the necessary information and follow basic rules of prudence. Your first line of defense, both in ATMs and online payments, are the technological protection measures offered by your entity:
- Activate transaction alerts: Most banks offer instant notifications by SMS or email whenever a transaction is made. This allows you to detect unauthorized activities quickly.
- Set daily withdrawal limits on your account to reduce the impact in case of fraud.
- Plan your cash needs. If the amount to be withdrawn is large, it is safer to make a transfer than to carry a lot of cash on you, and not just because of the risk of fraud. Cash is also lost.
Once at the ATM, try, as much as possible, to use cashiers located inside the office, indoors or in illuminated areas. Observe your surroundings and if you are not comfortable, find another cashier.
- Before using the ATM, look at its appearance. Check the card reader, keyboard, or cash dispenser for suspicious components.
- Once you insert or swipe the card through the contactless reader, cover the keyboard by entering your PIN with your free hand or wallet.
- If you have any technical problems, don't rely on strangers trying to "help" you. His presence may not be casual. Contact your bank directly if you have an incident.
- When the ATM displays unusual messages or requests information that is not common, such as your full account number, it is advisable to cancel the transaction.
- If you ask for the receipt of the transaction, never leave it at the ATM, as it could contain sensitive information. When you no longer need it, destroy it safely.
- Take the time to store the money in your wallet or purse before moving away from the ATM.
If, despite everything, you are the victim of fraud or problems at a ATM, contact your bank immediately. Report the incident as soon as possible so they can lock your card and protect your funds. If you suspect fraudulent use of the card, you can file a complaint with the Police, Civil Guard or the Court.
Protecting yourself when using ATMs requires combining caution, observation and the use of technological tools. By implementing these measures, you can significantly minimize the risks and avoid angry situations.
“Disclaimer: Please note that this is a translation of the original in Spanish that has been obtained using eTranslation (the machine translation tool provided by the European Commission), with the intention of giving you a basic idea of the content in English until a human translation becomes available. The Banco de España accepts no liability whatsoever in connection with this translation.”
