Tips for Avoiding ATM Crimes
How many times have you found yourself ready to head out for that sporting event, concert, or birthday party, and as you get into the car you realize that you don’t have any cash? Most of us live a pretty fast paced lifestyle and wait till the last minute to do everything. ATM cash machines have become a way of life for many people. They offer a nice convenience to those on the run, but they also offer a nice convenience to thieves. What better place to find people with cash on hand than at the ATM. Just because these machines are open 24/7 doesn’t mean they are safe to use. ATM safety requires awareness and a little planning.
Most ATM robbery victims are women and are alone when the robberies occurred. The robbers usually prefer to work alone. They will hang out somewhere near the cash machine where they will be hard to notice, usually behind bushes or trees, concrete barriers, or sometimes in a nearby automobile. They like to use the element of surprise on their victims.The majority of victims claim that they never saw the robber coming until it was too late. In drive thru ATM robberies, the robber usually approaches from the rear of the car on the driver’s side. Walkup ATM robberies occurred in many different ways. Many times the thief will wait on the right opportunity, get out and act as if he is using the ATM in front of his intended target, and then rob the person when they walk up behind him. The percentage of robberies is slightly higher at walkup ATM’s than at driveup ATM’s.
If you or your family use ATM’s on a regular basis, there are a few simple guidelines to follow to ensure that you always have a safe experience. First of all, make sure that you only use ATM’s in well lit, high traffic areas. Don’t go to the machines that are located behind buildings away from the public’s eye. Drive to another location till you find one that you feel safe at. Try to only use the ATM in daylight hours. The highest risk is between 8pm and 4am. Try to always have some cash on hand, especially if you will be travelling through or near a high crime area. A little forethought and planning can eliminate a lot of problems. When ever you drive up to an ATM, scan the area really good for suspicious people standing around or sitting in cars. If you see anyone suspicious, drive away. If you do use it, keep your car in gear with your foot on the brake, and be ready to drive off if you see someone suspicious approaching. At a walkup ATM, always have your card ready, make your transaction quick, and always keep an eye out behind you. If you carry a self defense spray or stun gun, it would be wise to have it ready to use. When you receive your cash, put it away immediately. If you are ever approached by someone that feels or looks at all suspicious while at any ATM, terminate your transaction, and leave immediately, even if it means leaving your card. Losing your card is not a big deal. Losing your life is.
If you are approached by an unarmed robber, first tell the unarmed man to “back off!” or “get away from me!” in a very firm and loud voice. If their are people nearby, scream as loud as you can. Studies show that screaming “fire” or “fight” will bring people running to the scene quicker than “help”. Also, try to avoid a physical confrontation, but be prepared to protect yourself at all costs. In the event that you are ever caught by surprise and are confronted by an armed robber, give up your money without argument. Never attempt to fight with or follow an armed robber. The small amount of cash you stand to lose is not worth serious injury or death. Afterwards, get to a safe place and call the police immediately.