Safety Tips for ATM Users in London

With the advent of the 21st century, our money has gone digital too. Now people prefer carrying their cards instead of cash, which allow them to withdraw money or pay vendors with a single swipe and a code. However, payment systems are not completely online and there are breaks in the chain, bringing up the need for ATM machines.

While digital money is not so easily stolen, ATM machines are vulnerable points where people withdraw cash and are hence targets for robberies. If you must use ATM machines in London, you should follow the safety tips given below.

Instructions

1

Avoid going to the ATM at night

You should be careful visiting ATMs at night and should avoid it if possible. Always go to well-lit ATMs so you can see everything and everyone around you clearly. Even as you drive towards an ATM, keep an eye out for suspicious people.
2

Try to have a friend in the car

If you are accompanied by someone, let that person stay in the car and keep an eye from outside in case someone is acting suspiciously. The person in the car can also call the Metropolitan Police easily if needed.
3

Lock the door from inside

All ATMs have internal locks, allowing you to shut the door from the inside. Unfortunately, most people don't take note of or use these locks, which means someone can easily get into the ATM booth while you are withdrawing money.
4

Safely put away your money and card

Don't walk out of the ATM holding your money or the card in your hands. Put them away safely in your wallet, and then into your pocket (preferably front pocket) before unlocking the door and walking out.

If you're holding your money when you get out, you'll be putting yourself in a risky position yourself.
5

Have emergency numbers on speed dial

You should always have emergency numbers like that of the Metropolitan Police on your speed dial. Even if any untoward instance happens, the earlier you report it the faster the police can get to work.
6

Contact the bank

If you get robbed in the ATM booth you can contact the bank. Most of their transactions are insured and you might be able to claim it back since banks have cameras which record everything.

You will also need to get your ATM card reported as stolen so that no more transactions can be made through it.