How to Insert ATM Card?

All banks offer Debit cards to their customers nowadays. It comes in handy as it can be used as plastic money and you don’t need to carry cash with you everywhere.

This article will tell you the right way to insert an ATM card into the machine.

How to Insert ATM Card in ATM Machine?

Using an ATM is an easy process. Here is a step-by-step guide on ‘how to insert Debit card in ATM’ -

STEP-1: Find an ATM that is compatible with the card you have. You can visit your bank’s or any partner bank’s ATM.

STEP-2: Go up to the ATM and make sure no one is looking while you enter your PIN or use the ATM.

STEP-3: Find the ATM card slot on the machine, it is mostly located on the right side of the display screen. 

STEP-4: Make sure that the magnetic strip or the chip faces down and aligns with the card reader of the machine. Some ATMs will keep your card in the machine while you complete the transaction, while others will give it back after reading it so you can continue the transaction. 

STEP-5: Once the ATM has read your card, it will display instructions on the screen about the further steps. You will be guided to select the type of bank account, the transaction you want to carry out, enter the desired amount, etc.

STEP-6: You will then need to authorize your transaction by entering your PIN.  It is suggested to shield the keypad with your hand while entering the PIN, so that no one can see it.

STEP-7: The machine will complete your transaction as requested. If you have selected the ‘Cash Withdrawal’ option, the machine will disperse the cash from the cash slot. 

STEP-8: You will be asked if you want a receipt for your transaction. If you choose ‘Yes’, the machine will print a receipt for you. 

STEP-9: If your card was in the machine while you were completing your transaction, you can retrieve it after it is completed. The display will prompt you to remove the card from the slot, and you can gently pull it out.

Why Do You Need to Insert Debit Card in ATM?

You need to insert your ATM card into the machine to initiate a transaction. There are a few reasons why you need to insert your card in the ATM -

• The ATM identifies your card when you insert it in the slot. This is necessary for the ATM to connect to your bank account. 

• The magnetic strip has information about your bank account number, which the ATM's card reader reads.

• The ATM needs to authenticate you as a legitimate cardholder. This is done when you enter the PIN associated with your card.

• Inserting the card establishes a secure communication with your financial institution. This helps in keeping the information exchanged confidential.

• When you insert your card into the ATM, you permit it to access your account information. You can then perform transactions such as cash withdrawals, account balance inquiries, fund transfers funds, etc.

Inserting the card is thus essential for the transaction to be completed safely. 

What is an ATM Card?

An ATM card is a small card with a magnetic strip that can be used for a variety of purposes. Most cards are now Debit-cum-ATM cards that can be used for withdrawing cash as well as making direct transactions at points of sale.

It is secured with an ATM PIN which is a secret 4-digit number. That number helps you protect your bank account and complete transactions with an added layer of security.

After knowing ‘how to insert Debit card in ATM’, let us look at some of the benefits of using a Debit-cum-ATM card -

• Easy money withdrawal 

• Quick account balance check

• It may be used for withdrawing or opening a new Fixed Deposit account, booking tickets, and paying utility bills

• 24*7 access, including holidays

• Reduces the workload of bank officials as many important and regular services can be done directly from the ATM

What is an ATM Machine?

ATM stands for ‘Automatic Teller Machine’. They are set up by banks in small kiosks and can be used for a variety of purposes. 

You can learn ‘how to insert ATM card in ATM machine’ and use it for withdrawing cash and checking your account balance. All ATMs look slightly different but have the same basic parts. They are -

• A Card Reader, where you can insert your card to initiate a transaction. 

• The keypad is used to enter your PIN, and to select, cancel, and delete options. 

• The ATM Screen displays the options and services offered by the ATM.

• The Cash Dispensing Slot dispenses the requested amount of cash in the form of notes.

• The Receipt Printer prints a receipt of your transaction.

• The Speaker gives audio instructions for the transaction being carried out. 

Tips Related to Using an ATM

Now that you know how to enter ATM card in ATM machine, here are some tips that you can follow while using an ATM -

• If possible, choose an ATM located in a well-lit and crowded area.

• Check if the ATM kiosk has a door and keep it closed while carrying out your transaction.

• While entering your secret PIN, keep the ATM keypad covered with your hand or body to prevent others from seeing it. 

• When you set a PIN, choose one that is not easily guessable. Steer clear of keeping birthdays or consecutive numerals as your PIN.

• Try to memorize your PIN and avoid writing it down somewhere.

• If you notice any suspicious individuals or activities around the ATM, it is a good idea to find another ATM or return at a different time.

• Try to keep your card safe and avoid lending it to others. Never leave your ATM card unattended.

• Keep track of your bank account by regularly checking your bank statements.

• If you notice any unauthorized transactions or your card gets stolen, inform the bank immediately.

Conclusion

ATMs have made life easier for all of us. But using your ATM card has the chance of fraud due to data breaches, etc. There are certain precautionary measures that you need to take to make the process safe for you. 

Nowadays, some ATMs also allow you to withdraw cash without using your Debit-cum-ATM card. This is comparatively safer, as the OTP comes on your mobile phone.