Protecting your PIN at ATMs: a short everyday checklist

PIN security is mostly about small habits repeated every time a card is used.

Cover the keypad

Use your hand or body position to block the keypad from view when entering a PIN. This reduces the risk of someone observing the number directly.

Choose a PIN that is not easy to guess

Avoid obvious combinations tied to personal information. Do not write the PIN on the card or keep it immediately beside the card.

Leave if something feels wrong

If someone is watching too closely or a terminal looks unusual, cancel and use a different machine. Do not investigate suspicious equipment yourself.

Act quickly if the PIN may be exposed

Contact your financial institution if you think someone has learned the PIN or if the card is lost, stolen or retained by a machine.