If you’re like the majority of today’s financial customers, you rely on automated teller
machines (ATMs) for access to your funds. ATMs were introduced to the general public in 1971, and since that time, their use has grown rapidly. In fact, according to a consumer survey conducted by Star System Inc. in The Washington Post, in 2002 the average ATM customer used an ATM/Debit card about 200 times. 

Although card technology offers an awesome level of convenience, Jax Federal Credit Union urges all members not to let convenience replace common sense. The following habits can keep you and your money safe while you're using an ATM:

    • Never write your PIN (personal identification number) on your ATM or debit card. If you share the card with family members, like your children, impress upon them that they must memorize the PIN and never divulge it to anyone outside the family.

    • As you approach an ATM, check out your surroundings. If bystanders seem to be loitering rather than conducting business, go to another machine or come back later. If someone seems to take an unusual interest in you or your transaction, leave the area and report the suspicious behavior to police.

    • Be prepared to conduct your transaction when you approach the ATM. Have your card ready and know what transaction or transactions you want to conduct.

    • Pay attention to activity around the ATM as you leave, too. Secure any cash you withdraw before leaving the machine.

    • When using a drive-through ATM, keep all doors locked and all windows up, except for the driver's window. Again, scope out the environment and go to another machine if something strikes you as odd.

    • Shield the screen and keypad with your body as you use an ATM to prevent others from seeing your PIN. Crooks can spy on your activities and steal your transaction numbers, even from some distance, by using binoculars. This activity, common in some airports at both cash machines and pay telephones, is called "shoulder surfing."

    • If your card is lost or stolen, report it immediately to JAXFCU by calling our Card Services hotline (during business hours) at (904) 475-8080 or at (800) 472-3272 (after business hours). Also, examine your statements promptly to identify unauthorized transactions. Your liability is just $50 if you notify us within three business days but can rise considerably if you neglect to report the misuse or loss of your card within that time.