Protecting your personal identification number (PIN) is crucial to keeping your money safe. Whether you're using an ATM or a point of sale (POS) machine, you should always be mindful of your surroundings and take steps to protect your PIN from prying eyes.
One of the easiest ways to protect your PIN is to cover the keypad with your hand while you enter it. This may seem like common sense, but it's surprising how many people forget to do this. If you don't cover your PIN, anyone who is standing nearby can easily see what you're typing in.
Additionally, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Many ATM and POS machines have cameras installed above the billing counter, which can capture your PIN as you enter it. These cameras may be hidden, so you may not even be aware of them.
To protect your PIN, you should always try to stand in a position that blocks the view of any potential cameras. This may mean standing closer to the machine or even using your body to create a barrier between the camera and the keypad.
If you're using an ATM, it's also important to check for any skimming devices that may have been installed on the machine. Skimmers are small devices that can be attached to the card reader and capture your card information, including your PIN. Always check the card reader for any signs of tampering, such as loose or unusual looking parts.
In addition to these physical precautions, it's also important to protect your PIN online. When creating a PIN for your bank account or credit card, make sure it's a strong and unique combination of numbers. Avoid using easy-to-guess numbers like your birthdate or phone number.
Never share your PIN with anyone, and be wary of emails or phone calls that ask for your PIN or other personal information. Legitimate financial institutions will never ask for this information over the phone or via email.
Here are some reasons why covering your PIN is so important, and some tips for keeping your money safe:
Prevents PIN theft:
One of the most obvious reasons to cover your PIN is to prevent someone from stealing it. If you don't cover the keypad while entering your PIN, anyone who is nearby can easily see what you're typing in. This can happen quickly and discreetly, so it's important to always be mindful of your surroundings.
Protects against hidden cameras:
Many ATM and POS machines have cameras installed above the billing counter, which can capture your PIN as you enter it. These cameras may be hidden, so you may not even be aware of them. By covering the keypad with your hand, you can block the view of any potential cameras and keep your PIN safe.
Helps prevent skimming:
Skimming is a common method used by thieves to steal credit card information. Skimmers are small devices that can be attached to the card reader and capture your card information, including your PIN. By checking the card reader for any signs of tampering and covering your PIN while entering it, you can help prevent skimming and keep your money safe.
Protects your online accounts:
When creating a PIN for your bank account or credit card, it's important to choose a strong and unique combination of numbers. Avoid using easy-to-guess numbers like your birthdate or phone number. Never share your PIN with anyone, and be wary of emails or phone calls that ask for your PIN or other personal information
Here are some tips for protecting your PIN at ATMs and POS machines:
- Cover the keypad with your hand while entering your PIN.
- Be aware of your surroundings and try to stand in a position that blocks the view of any potential cameras.
- Check the card reader for any signs of tampering, such as loose or unusual looking parts.
- Use a strong and unique combination of numbers for your PIN.
- Never share your PIN with anyone.
- Be wary of emails or phone calls that ask for your PIN or other personal information.
