05 Sep 2024
The UK offers various financial services, including a vast network of ATMs. While ATMs provide convenience, it's essential to prioritize safety to protect your hard-earned money.
This article outlines 5 essential ATM safety tips for Gambian expats who send money to Gambia from UK.
ATMs have been installed in almost every corner of the world for convenience, but they also make good targets for criminals. By taking a few preventive measures, as mentioned above, you can lower the possibility of being exposed to an ATM offender.
To reduce the number of ATM assaults, it is advisable to locate the machines in areas of maximum visibility, including bank branches, shopping complexes or even petrol stations. Such places are often fully illuminated, making any criminal feel naked and thus avoiding them. Do not use ATMs that are located alone, for example, those that are shaded or located at corners with little or no lighting.
Whenever one wants to use an ATM, he or she should first assess if there has been any form of vandalism to the machine. These are signs that something is wrong; if the card slots are loose, you can be almost certain something is wrong, and a device is connected to the keypad.
If you suspect something is wrong with the machine, withdraw your card and report it to the bank management in case of anything wrong with the ATM. Gadgets called ‘skimmers’ are usually placed to obtain card data at these places.
It should also be noted that you should hide your PIN by placing your hand on the keypad. Do not allow anyone to see your pin, whether they pretend to be bankers or security guards. Fraudsters employ ‘Shoulder surfing’, in which criminals look at your PIN.
This is when the criminals make every effort to distract you with the aim of obtaining your card or PIN. Avoid paying attention to people who approach you with offers of help or conversational prompts, people who try to distract you. Eliminate all external influences on ATM transactions and pay no attention to them.
Be cautious and observant of your environment when sticking your credit card into an ATM. Trust your gut; if you feel you are in the wrong place, evacuate immediately. Avoid using your phone or speaking with someone who can distract you throughout the practice. The same vigilance should be applied to ensure your transactions are secure when you send money to Gambia online.
ATMs stationed in elite and busy areas likely have security cameras installed. Such cameras help to prevent criminals from perpetrating their evil acts and can be handy in profiling suspected criminals. More importantly, more is needed if one relies only on surveillance.
An ATM card should be handled like cash; it should be given only to a reputable and trusted organization. It should be kept in a secure wallet or purse and not be in the reach of children.
Keep your PIN written separately with or near your card.
In such a case of card loss or theft, the client should contact the bank to report the loss and make the necessary arrangements to ensure that the card is blocked against any use. Reporting this incident to the local authorities is also advised.
Always examine your bank statements for strange and unidentified transactions. Watch closely for signs such as charges or transactions made by people the account holder has not authorized or amounts that are different from usual. People are also advised to report any such irregularities to their bank immediately.
Currently, many ATMs are providing Verge for their customers to conduct cardless transactions. Such methods may also ensure an added security measure in that you don’t have to insert your card.
Use mobile banking applications to inquire about balances, transfer money and search nearby ATMs. These apps can also help notify you of suspicious activity.
A better way to avoid being caught up in a robbery is to transact with ATMs during business hours. It is relatively safer to undertake ATM transactions during working hours. ATMs are generally open and have receptionists and other staff members, which makes them more secure. Risky and suspicious individuals will likely be dissuaded by personal or watchful eyes.
Banks provide card-less ATM services to increase security. Instead of entering a physical card, you can enter a mobile app or a code generated specifically for one-time or session access.
This does away with incidences of card skimming and eventual fraudulent use of the cards.
The public is advised to withdraw only the required amount of cash, which will help in preventing the carrying of large amounts of money. In essence, there is always the risk that a lot of cash is stolen or lost when one feels they have a lot of money on them. By invoking the withdrawal strategy in smaller amounts frequently, you reduce the times you are vulnerable to losses.
ATM safety is only a small part of the picture; your hard earned money must reach your families safely back home. ACE Money Transfer steps in as an innovative, secure and reliable service for making an online money transfer to Gambia. ACE's competitive exchange rates and fast transfers mean you can confidently send money. Security is something that ACE Money Transfer takes to heart as a company for they value their customers and offer satisfactory customer service.
The ideas below will help you use ATMs safely and choose a reliable remittance service provider like ACE Money Transfer to protect your money and ensure it gets where it is supposed to go.
Remember, staying vigilant and informed is critical to safeguarding your hard-earned money.
Sending money from Germany to Nigeria should be a simple affair. You can send your money in peace with ACE Money Transfer at the best online exchange rate and low fees.
Always cover the ATM's keypad when entering the PIN. Do not tell anyone your PIN number.
Do not use the machine and raise the matter with the bank or local law enforcement authorities.
Be careful about ATMs whose card slots are loose or have strange attachments; use cardless ATMs instead.
Block your card immediately by contacting your bank to prevent its misuse by anyone else.
Check your bank statements regularly for any unusual transactions without delay.
