You probably already know the basics of credit card security when it comes to shopping online or at your favourite retailers. But there’s another time when you need to think about keeping your credit card information secure — when you visit an ATM.

There are several risk factors to consider when you pull out a credit card (or even a debit card like the St. George Visa debit card) at the ATM to get cash. To help you keep yourself and your card information safe when making a withdrawal, consider these tips.

1. Choose your ATM wisely.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing the ATMs you visit, based on basic security precautions:

• Don’t use any ATM that appears damaged or has an electronic device attached.
• Don’t visit ATMs that are too secluded.
• Don’t visit ATMs with a lot of people around (close enough to view the keypad).

2. Try to visit the ATM during daytime hours.

No matter which ATM you choose to use, another good safety precaution is to only withdraw cash during daytime hours. It’s easier for potential thieves to hide after dark. If you must use an ATM after dark try to choose one in a well-lit area with other people around (although not if groups of people are hanging around too closely to the machine).

3. Block others’ view of the PIN keypad.

Place your body between the ATM keypad and the view of anyone around. You can also shield the keypad with your other hand as you enter your PIN. This helps you reduce the risk that someone will see you entering that PIN (valuable to them if they were to steal your credit card).

4. Immediately put your cash in a safe place.

Don’t visit an ATM unless you have a safe place to put the cash you withdraw. For example, you might immediately put it in your pocket or purse. If you put the cash in your purse, make sure you have a good grip on it so no one can simply walk up and take it. It’s just as important to immediately put your credit card or debit card away as well.

For the most part, credit card security at an ATM is common sense. But it’s precisely the ease of these tips that lets us occasionally forget about them. If you want to keep your credit card information safe (and keep yourself safe), it’s important to always exercise caution when dealing with money — whether making a cash withdrawal or using your card to make a purchase.