To avoid becoming a victim of crime, police advise the public to take heed of the following tips:
Tips when withdrawing large amounts of cash
– Have another person accompany you to and from the bank.
– Make sure a trustable person is always left inside the car if large amounts of cash are withdrawn.
– Never leave large amounts of money under the seat or inside the car.
– Be aware that you are not being followed from the bank. If you suspect you are being followed, alert authorities immediately.
– Rather transfer large sum of monies electronically. Avoid carrying hard cash.
– Do not accept help from strangers; rather ask the bank personnel.
– Always ensure there is an acceptable distance between you and other bank clients.- When you are in a bank and the bank is being robbed, follow the orders of the robbers (do not confront the robbers by apprehending them).
At the ATM:
– Be alert and conscious of your surroundings when using the ATM.
– Never give your card or PIN( Personal Identification Number) to anyone, for any reason.
– Do not write your PIN on the card or anything that is kept with the card.
– Do not insert your card until asked to do so by the display screen.
– Never use an ATM with a blank screen and, if the ATM is obscured from view or poorly lit, leave immediately and find another ATM.
– Stand close to the ATM and use your body and hand as a shield to make sure nobody sees you keying in your pin. Also, make sure you keep your hand over the card slot to make sure nobody can swop or take your card.
– Never accept help from strangers when using an ATM. You should be wary of strangers asking for help.
– Remember, criminals work in teams; one to distract you while the other steals your card or money.
– If your card is retained (swallowed) by the ATM it is advisable to phone your bank toll free stop card line immediately and stop your card. Never allow a bystander to call the toll-free stop card line on your behalf, they could be tricking you into thinking your card has been stopped.
