Practice personal security when using ATMs Published March 21, 2013 By Monte Waters 377th Security Forces Squadron Crime Prevention KIRTLAND AFB, N.M. -- Automated teller machines have been incorporated into our way of life. They offer a real convenience to those on the run, but at the same time, include an element of risk. Using an ATM safely requires awareness and a little planning. Just because an ATM is open and available 24 hours a day doesn't mean it is always safe to use it. ATM robbery facts Most ATM robberies occur between 7 p.m. and midnight, when the machine only produces 10 percent of the daily transactions. Between 7 p.m. and 4 a.m., ATMs handle only 11 percent of total daily transactions but suffer 60 percent of the crime. Who are the robbers? ATM robbers are usually males under 25 years of age and most work alone. Robbers usually position themselves within 50 feet, waiting for a victim to approach and withdraw cash. Half of the robberies occur after the cash withdrawal. Many ATM robbery victims are women who were alone when robbed. Most say they never saw the robber coming. Most ATM robbers used a gun or claimed to have a concealed weapon when confronting victims and demanding their cash. Pick a safe location Only use ATMs in well-lighted, high-traffic areas. ATMs inside busy supermarkets are considered safer. Don't use ATMs that are remote or hidden, such as behind buildings, pillars and walls, or away from public view. Beware of obvious hiding places like shrubbery or overgrown trees. ATM robbers like to have the element of surprise and no witnesses. Be alert If anyone seemingly dangerous approaches, terminate your transaction and leave immediately, even if it means running away and leaving your ATM card in the machine. First, tell the suspicious person in a loud, firm voice to "back off" and leave you alone. This is designed to startle the person and give you time to flee, if appropriate. It is far easier to apologize later or suffer a little embarrassment for your fear than to become a robbery victim. When you receive cash from the machine put it away immediately, extract your card, and walk away. Here are some more tips that can make the process a little safer: If lights around the ATM are not working, don't use that machine Avoid bank ATM machines near obvious hiding places When you approach an ATM, scan the area first for loiterers Have your card ready and leave quickly, not counting your cash in public Walk, run or drive away immediately if your instincts tell you to do so Beware of offers for help from strangers during an ATM transaction Don't argue with a robber; if confronted, give up the cash Don't fight with or attempt to follow the robber Drive or walk to a safe place and immediately call the police.