ATM Safety Tips: How to Stay Secure When Withdrawing Cash

Q: Are ATMs safe to use at night?

Use ATMs in well-lit, busy locations or inside buildings after dark. Drive-through ATMs near banks are typically safer than standalone units.

Q: Can contactless ATMs prevent skimming?

Yes, contactless ATMs reduce skimming risks because you never insert a physical card into the machine.

Withdrawing cash from an ATM is convenient, but it comes with risks ranging from card skimming to theft. Fortunately, following a few simple ATM safety tips can help protect you from fraud and keep your money secure. This guide covers everything from choosing the safest ATM locations to spotting scams and using modern security features like contactless transactions.

1. Choose Safe ATM Locations

Whenever possible, use ATMs inside well-lit, high-traffic areas such as bank lobbies, shopping malls, or grocery stores. Indoor ATMs often have additional security cameras and are less likely to be tampered with than standalone outdoor machines. If you’re traveling or unsure about an area, choose a machine in a major chain location rather than a remote kiosk.

For more guidance on finding the right machine, see our Best No-Fee ATMs Nationwide guide.

2. Inspect the ATM Before Use

Before inserting your card, look for signs of tampering such as loose card readers, unusual keypads, or extra attachments near the slot. Criminals sometimes install skimming devices to steal card data. If anything looks out of place, find another machine and alert the bank.

Our ATM Skimming Prevention Guide explains what to watch for in more detail.

3. Shield Your PIN Entry

Always cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN. Tiny cameras hidden nearby can capture your code if you’re not careful. Also, avoid sharing your PIN with anyone, and change it periodically for added security.

4. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

If someone is standing too close or acting suspiciously, cancel your transaction and find another machine. Criminals sometimes use distraction techniques or “shoulder surfing” to steal card and PIN information. Trust your instincts and never feel pressured to complete a withdrawal if the situation doesn’t feel safe.

5. Use Contactless or Cardless Options When Available

Many banks now offer cardless ATM transactions using your smartphone and a secure one-time code or mobile wallet like Apple Pay. These options reduce the risk of card skimming because you never insert a physical card into the machine.

Learn more in our Contactless ATM Transactions Guide.

6. Limit How Much Cash You Withdraw

Only withdraw what you need for immediate use. Carrying large amounts of cash increases your risk in case of theft or loss. For higher limits, some banks allow you to request temporary increases, but only use them when necessary.

See our ATM Withdrawal Limit Guide for details on how to request higher limits safely.

7. Don’t Accept Help from Strangers

Scammers sometimes offer “help” if you’re having trouble at the ATM. Politely decline and call your bank if assistance is needed. No one other than a bank employee should ever handle your card or PIN.

8. Monitor Your Bank Accounts

Enable account alerts for withdrawals, transfers, and low balances. Many banks offer real-time notifications via text or app. This helps you spot unauthorized activity quickly, even if you rarely log into your account.

Pro Tips for Extra Safety

Use ATMs during daylight hours whenever possible.
Keep your card in sight at all times—never hand it to anyone.
End each session by selecting “No” when asked about another transaction.
Store cash discreetly before leaving the machine—don’t count it in public.
Set withdrawal alerts to track activity instantly.

ATM Safety FAQs

Are ATMs safe to use at night?

It’s best to use ATMs in well-lit, busy locations or inside buildings if you need to withdraw cash after dark. Drive-through ATMs near banks are generally safer than standalone units.

What should I do if the ATM keeps my card?

Call the bank immediately using the number on the ATM or your bank’s app. Do not accept help from strangers or leave without reporting the issue.

Can contactless ATMs prevent skimming?

Yes, because you never insert a physical card, contactless ATMs significantly reduce the risk of card skimming devices capturing your data.

Conclusion

By following these ATM safety tips, you can reduce the risk of fraud, theft, and scams while keeping your cash and personal information secure. Stick to trusted locations, use modern features like cardless transactions when available, and always stay alert to your surroundings.