Despite the rise of UPI, ATM withdrawals are still a part of daily life.
Recently, a question has gone viral on social media: does pressing the cancel button twice at an ATM protect you from fraud? Many users shared their own theories, but here’s what’s actually true.
Viral messages on Facebook and WhatsApp claimed that hitting ‘cancel’ twice before entering your PIN could stop hackers and prevent PIN theft.
The posts suggested that this trick could foil scammers who tamper with ATMs.
Government and RBI Set the Record Straight
The widespread rumours prompted government intervention.
In a fact-check, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) confirmed that the claim is completely false.
The RBI also clarified that no such advisory has ever been issued.
The cancel button exists only to stop a transaction or exit a process.
It does not prevent PIN theft or hacking.
ATM Fraud Is Real: How to Protect Yourself
Even though the cancel button won’t help, ATM fraud does exist.
Criminals sometimes attach skimming devices to card slots or tamper with keypads to steal your card details.
These stolen details can then be used for unauthorised withdrawals.
Here’s how to stay safe:
Check the ATM first: Inspect the card slot and keypad for anything loose, unusual, or suspicious.
If something looks wrong, don’t use it and report it to your bank.
Enable alerts: Turn on SMS and email notifications to track all withdrawals instantly.
Change your PIN regularly: Every 3–6 months, and avoid simple combinations like 1234 or 2222.
Secure your card: If your card is lost, stolen, or trapped, contact your bank immediately to block it.
Avoid strangers’ help: Never ask a stranger for assistance at an ATM.
The risk of fraud is too high.
Being alert and cautious is the best protection against ATM fraud.
