Essential Tips for ATM Safety and Night Depositories
ATMs provide a convenient way to access your funds, but it’s important to stay mindful of your safety when using them, especially during late hours or in unfamiliar locations. At People Driven Credit Union, we want to ensure that your experience is easy and safe. Here are some essential safety tips when using an ATM or night depository.
ATM Safety Tips
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Before approaching an ATM, take a moment to scan your surroundings, especially at night. If anything feels off or suspicious, trust your instincts and choose another location or return later. - Consider Bringing a Companion
If you’re using an ATM or night depository after dark, bringing someone with you for added safety is a good idea. - Close the ATM Door
If the ATM facility has a door, close it securely before beginning your transaction. Avoid allowing anyone you don’t know to enter the facility with you. - Maintain Personal Space
If someone stands too close while you’re at the ATM, politely ask them to step back before completing your transaction. Maintaining a safe distance ensures your privacy. - Secure Your Cash Immediately
Once you’ve withdrawn cash, put it away immediately, whether in your pocket, wallet, or purse. Avoid counting your money in public. Instead, do this in the safety of a locked car or at home. - Cancel Your Transaction if You Feel Unsafe
If you notice anything suspicious while using or approaching the ATM, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Cancel your transaction, take your card or deposit envelope, and leave the area. - Act Quickly if You Are Followed
If you suspect someone is following you after using the ATM, head to a public place where others are around, like a store or restaurant, and call for help if necessary. - Keep Your PIN Secure
Never write your Personal Identification Number (PIN) on your ATM card or keep it in your wallet. Memorize your PIN, and be cautious when entering it at the ATM to ensure no one else can see. - Report Any Suspicious Activity or Crimes Immediately
If you witness or experience a crime at an ATM, report it immediately to the ATM operator or local law enforcement. In an emergency, contact the police. - Share Your Concerns
If you have concerns about the security of an ATM, report them to the operator. Your feedback helps maintain a safe environment for everyone.
Your ATM Safety is Our Priority
At PDCU, your ATM safety matters to us. By staying vigilant and following these simple safety tips, you can help protect yourself and your finances when using ATMs. If you ever notice anything suspicious at one of our ATMs, don’t hesitate to report it to us.
For questions or concerns, contact us at (248) 263-4100 or visit us online at peopledrivencu.org/contact. Stay safe!
For more information on how to keep you and your personal information safe, visit our webpage on fraud alerts.
The Best ATM Safety Tip Is the One You Don’t Have to Take.
The MyPDCU app handles most of what people use ATMs for. When you do need to visit one, fraud alerts and a direct line to PDCU have you covered if something goes wrong.
Bank From Your Phone Instead
Check balances, transfer funds, pay bills, and deposit checks directly in the MyPDCU app. The less often you visit an ATM in public, the less exposure you have. Free for all members on iPhone and Android.
Card Compromised? Report It Now.
If you believe your debit card was skimmed or compromised at an ATM, report it immediately. Call 888-241-2510 any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For general questions during business hours call 844-700-7328.
People Driven Credit Union will never ask for your PIN by phone, text, or email. To report a lost or stolen debit card any time call 888-241-2510. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 first. Federally insured by the NCUA. NMLS #776727.ATM Safety
John Scharff is the Digital Marketing Lead at People Driven Credit Union, where he helps create clear, practical financial content for members and the communities PDCU serves. He focuses on making financial topics easier to understand, from loans and savings accounts to digital banking, fraud prevention, and everyday money management.
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