Leading ATM network BancNet forecasts cash withdrawals from its ATMs to surge this week through the weekend before Christmas. Most companies will be distributing their 13th month pay and Christmas bonus this week while some already did in the first week of December, in time for the holiday shopping. This is also the time when Filipinos abroad remit cash to their loved ones’ bank accounts here.
According to BancNet general manager Aristeo Zafra, Jr., “We expect BancNet ATM transactions to hover near the 3-million mark on December 19, the Friday before Christmas. Historically, ATM transactions have peaked on the Friday or payday before Christmas. Last year, BancNet processed 2.76 million switched transactions on December 20, mostly cash withdrawals. This was more than double the average daily volume in 2013 which was 1.23 million transactions.”
For safe and convenient ATM transactions, BancNet reminds cardholders on the following:
Instead of withdrawing all your deposits, use your ATM card to pay for your shopping at department stores, supermarkets, bookstores, boutiques and other specialty shops with the BancNet logo.
For your cash needs, withdraw before the weekend.
Choose ATMs at secure locations. Watch your surroundings for suspicious persons. Make sure no one is looking over your shoulder while you are keying your PIN. Never accept help from a stranger. This is to prevent anyone from seeing your PIN.
Inspect the ATM for suspicious devices. The card slot, keypad, keypad cover, and cash slot should not wiggle. Fake devices, designed to steal your PIN and card information, are installed by fraudsters hurriedly, using only double adhesive or glue which makes them movable. Grope the underside of the keypad cover to check for tiny hidden cameras. If you find any of such fake devices on an ATM, do not proceed with your transaction.
Guard your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Cover your hand when keying your PIN. This is to shield your PIN from being captured by a hidden camera. Cover your hand even if the keypad has a cover.
BancNet has 112 member banks and affiliates with more than 12,500 ATMs and over 44.2 million ATM cardholders. Its members’ ATM cards can be used to pay at more than 20,000 business establishments nationwide.
