An idea for another safety tool at the drive-up ATM?

Bigwig - November 13, 2022

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I was getting money from the drive-up ATM one Saturday morning.  The bank was open but there wasn’t anyone else at either machine.  It’s in a low-crime area but I always keep my head on a swivel and take as little time as possible.  I overshot the machine, so I had to back up.  After getting into a better position, I glanced at my rear camera.  Just then it hit me that if I keep my vehicle in reverse (and foot on the brake), I have a really good rear view of what is going on behind me.  Of course, if anyone is behind me it might freak them out, and if something were to go down I would likely back into the car behind me.  No, I don’t have any aftermarket front or rear security cameras and realize that would work better.

Just wanted some thoughts from the community.

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I can see myself reaching for my card from the machine and lifting my foot off the brake enough to cause an accident. It’s a great idea to have that additional view and I like your tip but I can see my clumsy self getting into more trouble with it. 

I’m always cautious when travelling to and from the bank. I look for any people and cars that are paying too  much attention to me and once I get my money, I don’t sit and count and organize it in the parking lot. I drive away and keep an eye out that no one is following me and then organize it at my next destination. 

These blind spot mirrors that I see many large trucks use could give you an additional angle not only for at the ATM but while driving as well. 

 

I looked up some ATM safety tips:

• Be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. If you observe or sense suspicious persons or circumstances, do not use the machine at that time.
• Have your ATM card ready and in your hand as you approach the ATM. Don’t wait to get to the ATM and then take your card out of your wallet or purse. (I LIKE THIS ONE!)
• Visually inspect the ATM for possible skimming devices. Potential indicators can include sticky residue or evidence of an adhesive used by criminals to affix the device, scratches, damaged or crooked pieces, loose or extra attachments on the card slot, or noticeable resistance when pressing the keypad.
• Be careful that no one can see you enter your PIN at the ATM. Use your other hand or body to shield the ATM keyboard as you enter your PIN into the ATM.
• To keep your account information confidential, always take your receipts or transaction records with you. (I always take my receipt from ATMs, gas stations, and everywhere. I don’t know what information of mine is on there)
• Do not count or visually display any money you received from the ATM. Immediately put your money into your pocket or purse and count it later. (I already to this)
• If you are using a drive-up ATM, be sure passenger windows are rolled up and all doors are locked. If you leave your car and walk to the ATM, lock your car. (Great tip I hadn’t thought of either!)

Special Precautions for Using an ATM at Night

• Park close to the ATM in a well-lighted area.
• Take another person with you, if at all possible.
• If the lights at the ATM are not working, don’t use it.
• If shrubbery has overgrown or a tree blocks the view, select another ATM and notify your bank.
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Yes, It could definitely be problematic while you are trying to finish your transaction.

 

I went to the bank yesterday and did the drive up teller where you put your deposit slip, ID, and money into the tube and it sucks it into the bank. 

Well I sat there fumbling with the deposit slip writing down my information which took a few minutes and thought back to this post of minimizing the amount of time we sit in our cars at the bank. I then realized that I could take a couple of these, fill them out beforehand and keep them in my wallet. That will cut down on the time I spend in the bank parking lot, reducing my risk of being around people, and not hold up the line for cars behind me.