ATM safety: when to pause and use another machine

Simple signs of damage or interference are a reason to stop the transaction, not investigate the machine yourself.

Trust visible warning signs

If an ATM looks damaged, altered, unusually loose or otherwise different from what you expect, cancel the transaction and use another machine. Do not pull apart, open or test components. Report suspicious equipment to the ATM operator or your financial institution.

Protect the PIN

Shield the keypad when entering a PIN and be aware of anyone standing unusually close. The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada advises cardholders to cancel a transaction and use another machine if someone is watching or if anything seems unusual.

Use familiar locations when practical

ATMs at staffed branches or familiar locations can make it easier to get help if the card is retained or the machine behaves unexpectedly.

No financial products here

Online does not operate ATMs, issue cards, offer bank accounts or provide financial products. This article is general consumer-safety information.