The Alternative Press

ATMs are a great convenience and can be found almost everywhere.  They make it convenient for you to get cash whenever you need it and to bank after hours.  This is normally a safe and secure process; however, carelessly using your card at an ATM can make you a target for robbery as well as identity theft.

Peapack-Gladstone Bank is dedicated to keeping its customers safe at ATM locations and believes that even one incident of ATM crime is too many.  The Bank takes a number of precautions to ensure its customers have a safe environment.  Nevertheless, there is no substitute for good, cautious behavior. That is why the Bank recommends clients follow these safety tips when using any ATM:

• Memorize your PIN number and keep it a secret.  Never write it down or share it with anyone – even family members.
• Be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night.  Make sure the ATM is free of sight obstructions.  If you observe suspicious persons or circumstances, do not use the machine.
• Bring someone with you when using an ATM at night.  If you can’t, use an ATM that is located in a public area like a convenience or grocery store.
• Have your ATM card ready and in your hand as you approach the ATM.
• Use your body to shield the ATM keyboard as you enter your PIN.
• Always take your receipts or transaction records with you.
• Do not count or visually display any money you received from the ATM.  Immediately put your money into your pocket or purse and count it later.
• If you are using a drive-up ATM, be sure passenger windows are rolled up and all doors are locked.  If you leave your car and walk to the ATM, lock your car.
• Lastly, if anything seems out of the ordinary, cancel your transaction and leave the area immediately.

Client safety and convenience are Peapack-Gladstone Bank’s top priorities when it comes to ATM use.  The Bank does not charge customers a fee for any ATM transaction, although other ATM owners may charge a fee for out-of-network transactions.  Peapack-Gladstone Bank will rebate the fee other ATM owners may charge, up to four (4) transactions within each monthly cycle.