precautions while using atm machines

Precautions while using ATM Machines

The basic units allow the customer to only withdraw cash and receive a report of the account's bala
1. ATM machines
The use of ATM machines by people has reduced a great deal of workload of banks. The people are also happy to use ATMs as it is convenient. But unfortunately, there are many scandals and incidents associated with ATM cards. It is very common to hear that somebody has lost an ATM card and password and that the card has been misused by somebody else. In this article I will talk about the precautions that should be kept in using ATM cards and machines.
2. Know what your rights are
a)You can use your ATM card at other bank ATMmachinesto withdraw cash too 5 times a month. After 5transactiona fees of 20 rupees pertransactionwill be charged. b) You can check your bank balance on the ATMmachinesof other banks too and there is no fees for this! Not many people know this.c)If while withdrawing cash from ATM thetransactionhas been registered on the machine but you have got no cash from the machine due to mechanical failure, keep thetransactionslip and register your complain with thetransactionslip at your bank as soon as possible. Within 12 working days of lodging a complain, the money will come back into your account. If within 12 working days you do not get the cash back into your account, you are eligible to get interest @ Rs 100 per day.d)There is usually a helpline number mentioned on ATMmachinesin case of any problems. You can call the number and register a complain.
3. What to be done if your card is stuck in the ATM machine
a) If your card is lost or stuck up in your ATM machine, contact your bank immediately and ask them to block your ATM card. You will be given a complain number, be sure to note it down. b) As soon as possible, give a written complain to your bank and ask for acknowledgement of the complain. Apply for a new card subsequent to this step only.c) If your ATM is stuck up in a machine attached to your bank, it is more easier to retrieve it. In such a case just contact the branch manager. All you have to submit is your id proof.
4. Additional information
a)If you loose your pin and have applied for a new one, it takes a week to get a new pin.b) Make it a point tochangeyour pin manually once you receive it from the bank.In case of any problems with an ATMtransaction, you can ask the ATM guard for help, but be sure not to tell him your pin number. Never right your pin number on your ATM card.c) If you insert your card in the ATM of another bank and it says invalid activity , try the ATM of your own bank. There might be a technical problem. However if this message keeps coming, request your bank for a new ATM card.d) You can withdraw 15,000 25,000 rupees per day only through your ATM. If you cannot find the ATM of your own bank and use the ATM of another bank, you can withdraw Rupees 10,000 only at the maximum.e) Pick up the currency notes as soon as they come out of the ATM, else they may go back inside the machine again! If this happens the only thing you can do is to file a complain at your bank and the money will come bank into your account.f) If you do not get any cash from the ATM machine due to any error, keep the ATM slip safe as proof of failedtransaction. Good to keep a photocopy of thetransaction. An ATM machine stays active for 30 seconds after everytransaction, so you should leave the ATM machine only after the welcome logo is displayed again on the machine.
5. Never leave your ATMtransactionslip
Never leave your ATMtransactionslip at the machine, neither should you dump it at the dustbin. Keep the ATM receipts safe till you get yournextmonthly statement. On getting a new ATM card be sure to sign the back side immediately.At least once a month get your bank passbook updated. If there is any problem with any ATM transaction, contact your bank manager immediately. There is an expiry period mentioned on the back side of your ATM card. Be sure to apply for a new ATM card before the expiry period else the ATM card can swallow up your old ATM card!
6. Magnetic panel
There is a magnetic panel on the back side of your ATM card. Keep this safe from scratches and keep it away from your TV. If you have time, withdraw cash only through the authorized ATMs of your bank. The reason is that in case of any ATM error, you can get your cash back on thenextworking day itself. It takes more time if the ATM is of another bank.
7. Contacting your bank Ombudsman
If in two working days you do not get cash back into your account caused by a failed ATMtransaction, you can contact the Ombudsman of your bank. The details of contacting your bank Ombudsman will be available at your nearest bank branch.
8. Always be alert
Pay attention to the people around you and to the location of the ATM. If you see anyone suspicious or do not feel comfortable at the ATM, go to another location. All ATMs should be well lit, be in high traffic areas and provide an easy exit. When possible, have someone you trust or a security person accompany you an ATM you feel is not in a secured environment.
9. Be prepared to leave
If you notice anyone or anything that makes you feel uncomfortable at an ATM, end your transaction, secure your cash, card and receipt, and leave the area immediately. Do not stay at an ATM any longer than necessary. Report anything suspicious to a security person in the area
10. Have your information ready
Have your card and any deposit slips ready before arriving at the ATM to minimize the time you will spend there. At a Drive Up ATM, remain in car with the motor running and make sure your doors are locked and windows are closed. When you are ready to proceed with your transaction, open only the window needed to access the ATM.