BETHAL – W/O Riaan Smit from Bethal Police Station warned residents to be extra careful when they use the ATM at Capitec Bank in Bethal.
The head of Communication of Capitec, Mr Charl Nel, said: “Capitec Bank met with W/O Smith regarding the increase in crime in the area in April.
“Since then, no robberies were reported to our head office.
“However, the branch will be placed on our high risk area list with increased security patrols.
“Extra patrols will be arranged at the branch with the armed response unit and the police.”
Here are some ATM safety tips that can protect you from being robbed.
Card and ATM crime:
* Have your card ready in your hand before you get to the ATM.
* Do not use the ATM if there are suspicious-looking people nearby.
* Do not use the ATM if the area is poorly lit.
* Do not use it if you think it has been tampered with.
* If the ATM is not working as it should, press the cancel button, take your card and go to another ATM.
* Take your time to finish your transaction and put your card and cash in your wallet, handbag or pocket before leaving.
* Always cover the hand that is typing in the Pin number when at the ATM.
* Do not accept help from strangers or in fact anyone that has been friendly towards you or a person you hardly know. They could be trying to distract you in order to get your card or Pin.
* Never let the card out of your sight when making payments.
* Never share your Pin number with anyone, including family members or bank officials.
Carrying Cash Safely:
* Carry as little cash as possible.
* If you are a member of a stokvel or a savings club, arrange for the club’s payout to be electronically transferred into each club member’s personal account or accounts of their choice.
* Alternate the days and times that you deposit cash.
* Do not mention at the workplace when you are going to the bank for cash.
If your Global One card gets jammed, lost or stolen, call 0860 10 20 43 immediately to report it.
