What to do if…
someone stands too close while you enter a PIN or passcode at an ATM or terminal

What to do now

1. Stop entering digits. Press Cancel or ask the cashier to cancel the transaction if you can do so without confrontation.
2. Collect any card, cash, phone, or receipt already returned, but leave it behind if retrieving it would put you at risk.
3. Move to a staffed counter, security desk, open business, or other populated place. Tell an employee or security worker that someone was crowding you at the terminal.
4. Check that you still have your card, phone, cash, and wallet. If anyone handled your card, confirm that the name and final digits belong to you.
5. If the person threatens you, blocks your movement, follows you, or attempts to take property, call 911 when safe. Do not risk injury to protect money or a card.
6. If your PIN may have been seen, contact your bank or card issuer promptly through its official app or website, your account statement, or the number on a card you have verified is yours. Use any available card-lock feature and ask whether to change the PIN or replace the card.
7. If your card is missing, was taken, or may have been swapped, report it lost or stolen immediately. Federal protections for unauthorized ATM or debit-card transactions can depend on how quickly you notify the bank or credit union.
8. Check recent account activity and enable transaction alerts if available. Report any withdrawal, purchase, or transfer you did not authorize as soon as you notice it.
9. If the exposed passcode protects a phone, device, or account, change it privately from a secure location using the device or service’s official settings.
10. When safe, note the time, location, terminal, and a brief description of what happened. Notify the store, bank, ATM operator, or site security so they can check the area.