BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – IN an effort to sensitise the banking public on some of the safety measures that can be applied when using Automated Teller Machines (ATM), SKNVibes visited the Basseterre Police Station and spoke with Corporal Carl Greaux of the Criminal Investigation Department, who offered a number of tips.
Greaux said there are many ATMs in the twin-island Federation and declared that the characteristics of each location must be taken into consideration with regards to criminals on the prowl, especially during the Carnival and Christmas season.
“There is no single formula that can guarantee the security of ATM customers,” he posited, adding that users must perform mental exercises and think what they should do in different crime or personal security situations.
“Follow your instincts. If you feel you are in danger, respond immediately by remembering that your personal safety is paramount…your first priority,” he advised.
“Criminals select their victims and targets, focusing on the unaware and unprepared. They are also drawn to environmental conditions that enhance their opportunity to successfully committing their crime. The attitude and demeanour you convey can have a tremendous effect on potential assailants,” he said.
He noted that there are a number of things one could do to increase one’s security and reduce the risk of becoming an ATM crime victim.
“Walk purposefully and with confidence, give the appearance that you are totally aware of your surroundings, be aware of your total environment and what is going on around you, for criminals tend to avoid people who have this type of demeanour,” Greaux advised.
He also indicated that users should maintain a small supply of deposit envelopes at home, in their car or office to prepare all transaction paperwork prior to arrival at the ATM site. This, he explained, would minimise the amount of time spent at the ATM.
He also warned that expensive jewellery or other exposed valuables should not be worn when visiting the ATM, because these are added incentives to the criminals.
“ATM crime is predicated on opportunity and will continue as long as criminals continue to pervade our society. We at the Criminal Investigation Department foresee an increase in attempts by criminals in ATM crimes during this Carnival season. Therefore, we encourage the general public not to provide any opportunity that may increase the risk of them becoming victims,” Greaux said.
Corporal Greaux is also calling on the general public to remember that the foremost consideration is ATM users’ security. “If confronted by an assailant, give up what they demand. Do not resist. Property may be recovered later or replaced, but not your life,” he concluded.
