Automated Teller Machine means a lot in today’s world when we are looking for ways to save as much time as we can. You don’t need to wait in the line at the bank if you want to withdraw money, the only problem might be that every model has a limit but you can always visit a few of them. Depending on the bank, they can be used everywhere in the world.
A good thing that most of them will accept every card because banks work with each other to be more appealing to their clients. There are also other models that accept all kinds of cards but you need to do your research if you want to be safe. When you know who made it like Puloon ATM manufacturing, you will have better insight into their products and if they are reliable. Something you maybe don’t know is that they can be rented.
How It Works?
This machine that is meant to provide a service for you is made out of 4 output devices and two inputs and it is a data terminal. It has a host processor which is usually a bank connected through the internet which makes it available for usage by clients. They can be connected directly like when you see one in the banks building or through a dial-up line.
The more expensive version is dial-p so they are favored for retail merchant areas. Leased-line is better at locations with high-volume because of their thru-put capability. For the expensive type, you could get two cheaper options. Besides financial institutions, independent providers can also be the owners so don’t get confused when you don’t recognize the logo of the machine. You only need to know what kind of card they support so you can use it.
Parts of the Machine
You probably wonder why it is important to know the parts of the machine when you are only there to get your cash and move along. The reason is that scammers can target any model usually in remote areas near the highway. They will just add an extra gadget to the card reader which you won’t even notice but it can read the information necessary to steal your data.
The first part is the card reader and it’s most important because it can read the account information which is on the stripe on the back of the card. It is the first thing scammers will target so it shouldn’t have any extensions. The keypad is used to set the amount you want to withdraw and input your PIN but it can block your account if you make a mistake a few times.
Besides input parts, you have outputs including the speaker, display screen, receipt printer and cash dispenser. The difference between models can be with the display which can be a touchscreen or not. You also don’t need to get a receipt always which will depend on how you prefer so you have an option to receive one or not. Each one has a safe underneath that stores the cash. Read more on this page.
Security Tips
Nowadays, it won’t matter where the ATM is placed you always need to be aware of your surroundings. If you are traveling by yourself you shouldn’t use one that is in a deserted area because it can be a great target for thieves. Most safe include those located inside supermarkets or banks. If you notice something unordinary, you can always come back a few minutes later.
The added part scammers use to get the information from your card is called a skimmer and it is attached to the ATM. It can also happen that they offer help when you have a problem but you should refuse and ask the bank for assistance. One of the most obvious tips is to cover the keypad when typing your pin code but most people don’t do this.
Wait a few seconds when you take the money because the receipt may come out with some valuable information. When you finish using it, put your card away before leaving the machine so it can be out of reach. You can verify the amount you withdrew before you leave.