Kent Police share ATM safety tips to help residents avoid theft

The Kent Police Department is urging residents to take precautions when using automated teller machines (ATM), noting that cash dispensaries remain popular targets for thieves.

In a public safety reminder titled “ATM Safety 101,” police outlined steps users can take to reduce their risk, including choosing well lit, high traffic locations and remaining alert to suspicious activity.

“Pick an ATM in a well lit, public and high traffic area,” the department advised. Police also recommend avoiding isolated machines or those near overgrown vegetation or other obstacles where someone could hide.

If you appreciate our award-winning, local, independent journalism:

Officers encourage people to scan the area before exiting their vehicle or approaching an ATM. If someone appears to be loitering nearby, police advise leaving and trusting your instincts. Residents are also urged to stay off their phones while conducting transactions to remain fully aware of their surroundings.

The department suggests minimizing time at the machine by having bank cards ready before exiting a vehicle and completing transaction slips in advance. Drivers should lock their vehicles before walking up to an ATM and, when using a drive up machine, keep doors locked and windows closed except for the one in use.

Police also caution residents not to accept help from strangers at an ATM and to be wary of conversations that could serve as distractions. If there is a problem with a transaction, officers recommend going inside the bank if it is open or leaving the area.

Users are advised to immediately place cash in a purse or pocket rather than counting it at the machine. For late night withdrawals, police suggest considering grocery stores or other businesses that allow cash back with a purchase or have interior ATMs.

If confronted by a criminal, police advise complying with demands and not resisting. Residents should get to safety as quickly as possible and call 911. If the bank is open, they should go inside, notify staff and have the doors locked.

“Be aware, be prepared, be engaged,” the department said.

If you appreciate our award-winning, local, independent journalism: