ATM Safety Tips: What Really Happens When You Press Cancel Twice?
Despite the rising popularity of UPI payments in India, ATM withdrawals remain an essential part of banking. Recently, a viral claim has left many users confused, suggesting that pressing the ATM cancel button twice can prevent fraud. But what really happens? Let’s break it down and separate fact from fiction.
The Viral Claim and Online Confusion
A message circulating on Facebook, WhatsApp, and other social platforms claims that pressing the ‘cancel’ button twice before entering your PIN can stop hackers and protect your account. According to the rumour, this trick can foil card skimming attempts and prevent PIN theft, making it a “must-do” for anyone using an ATM.
Government and RBI Clarification
The viral claim spread so widely that the Press Information Bureau (PIB) issued a fact-check, confirming it is completely false. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) also clarified that no advisory exists regarding pressing cancel twice. The cancel button’s sole function is to exit or stop a transaction; it does not prevent fraud or PIN theft.
ATM Fraud Is Real But This Trick Doesn’t Work
While the cancel button cannot protect you, ATM fraud remains a genuine concern. Common scams include:
Fraudsters use these tools to steal card information or perform unauthorised withdrawals.
How to Protect Yourself at ATMs
Instead of relying on viral myths, follow these expert-recommended precautions:
By following these ATM safety tips , you can protect yourself from fraud effectively, without relying on unverified tricks.
The Viral Claim and Online Confusion
A message circulating on Facebook, WhatsApp, and other social platforms claims that pressing the ‘cancel’ button twice before entering your PIN can stop hackers and protect your account. According to the rumour, this trick can foil card skimming attempts and prevent PIN theft, making it a “must-do” for anyone using an ATM.
Government and RBI Clarification
The viral claim spread so widely that the Press Information Bureau (PIB) issued a fact-check, confirming it is completely false. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) also clarified that no advisory exists regarding pressing cancel twice. The cancel button’s sole function is to exit or stop a transaction; it does not prevent fraud or PIN theft.
You may also like
- Boss in panic gives sudden promotion to employee. Still, the employee plans to quit
- Geological Survey of India's global seminar to kick off in Jaipur on Thursday
- Not Delhi, Agra or Jaipur: Foreign tourist calls this Indian city the most well-designed
Congress holds meeting to review ongoing SIR in 12 states, UTs amid Bihar polls debacle- Shraddha Kapoor has a pertinent question for photo editors
ATM Fraud Is Real But This Trick Doesn’t Work
While the cancel button cannot protect you, ATM fraud remains a genuine concern. Common scams include:
- Card skimming devices attached to the card slot
- Fake keypads designed to capture your PIN
- Hidden cameras or tampered machines
Fraudsters use these tools to steal card information or perform unauthorised withdrawals.
How to Protect Yourself at ATMs
Instead of relying on viral myths, follow these expert-recommended precautions:
- Inspect the ATM card slot and keypad before inserting your card. Step away if anything looks unusual or tampered with.
- Enable SMS and email alerts for instant notifications on withdrawals.
- Change your PIN every 3–6 months, avoiding obvious combinations like 1234 or 2222.
- Report lost, stolen, or trapped cards immediately to your bank and have them blocked.
- Avoid taking help from strangers at ATMs to reduce the risk of scams.
By following these ATM safety tips , you can protect yourself from fraud effectively, without relying on unverified tricks.
More from our partners
Loving Newspoint? Download the app now
