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Safety Tips

ATMs and Theft protection

Automatic teller machines

  • Try to use ATMs during daylight hours. If you must go at night, do not go alone.
  • Avoid ATMs that are not well lit or clearly visible from the street.
  • Be aware of people loitering or sitting in cars around ATMs.
  • Prepare your transaction ahead of time. Do not spend much time at the machine.
  • Do not give out your Personal Identification Number (PIN) to anyone! Manythieves will attempt to steal your PIN number by calling you on the phone and claiming they are the police, security officers, or bank officers. Memorize it and do not keep a written copy of it in your wallet.
  • Either keep your ATM receipt or tear it up and throw it away.

Theft Protection
  • When leaving your dorm room, home, or office, lock doors and windows even if
  • you will be gone for "just a minute."
  • Never leave your purse, wallet, or valuables exposed; store them out of sight. Be especially careful with your credit cards, which are very popular items among
  • thieves because they are usually easy to steal and then use again. Consider
  • obtaining a credit card with your photo imprinted on it.
  • Computers, especially if they are portable, are primary targets of theft. Consider
  • the purchase of a locking security or tracking device.
  • Keep a list of all items and serial numbers in a safe place.
  • Never prop open a locked door.