Whether you’re in a rush to grab cash or just checking your balance, using an ATM in the UK seems like second nature. But did you know there are small tricks that could save you time, protect your account, and even avoid unnecessary fees? With scams on the rise and hidden charges catching people off guard, it pays—literally—to know how to use ATMs smartly.
Here are the top ATM hacks every UK resident should know.
💡 1. Use Your Bank’s ATM to Avoid Fees
This might seem obvious, but many people overlook it. If you’re withdrawing from a cash machine that doesn’t belong to your bank (especially at convenience stores, petrol stations, or inside nightclubs), you could be charged between £1.50 and £3 per transaction.
Hack: Use your bank’s ATM locator in their mobile app to find the nearest free machine. Also, many LINK ATMs are free, but always check the screen before accepting the charge.
🔒 2. Always Cover Your PIN – Even If You’re Alone
Shoulder surfing and hidden cameras are more common than you think. Criminals often install tiny cameras or use sleight-of-hand tactics to observe PIN codes.
Hack: Use your hand or wallet to shield the keypad every time. If anything about the machine looks suspicious—loose parts, card slot extensions, or odd signage—don’t use it.
🚫 3. Avoid ATMs Late at Night in Isolated Areas
You might just be grabbing £20 on your way home, but poorly lit or secluded ATMs increase your risk of theft or fraud.
Hack: Stick to ATMs inside or near banks, train stations, or well-lit areas with cameras. Many 24-hour supermarkets and petrol stations have ATMs in safer locations.
📊 4. Check Your Balance—But Not at the Machine
Some machines charge a fee just to check your balance, especially non-bank-owned ones.
Hack: Use your banking app to check your balance instantly for free. Bonus: most apps also show recent ATM withdrawals, so you can track your spending on the go.
🔁 5. Cancel If the Card Feels Stuck or Suspicious
If your card gets stuck or the ATM is acting abnormally (long delays, screen flickering, repeated beeping), do not walk away immediately.
Hack: Hit the cancel button, wait a few seconds, and see if the card is ejected. If it’s still stuck, call your bank right away using their emergency number (often on the back of your card). Do not accept help from strangers.
✈️ 6. Be Extra Careful When Using ATMs Abroad
When travelling, the rules change. ATMs might offer to convert the local currency to pounds on the spot—don’t do it.
Hack: Always choose to be charged in local currency to avoid poor exchange rates. And bring a backup card in case one gets blocked for “suspicious foreign activity.”
🧠 7. Take the Receipt—Or Hit “No”
Leaving behind your receipt can reveal part of your account number or balance. In the wrong hands, that’s more than just paper.
Hack: Either take the receipt with you or select “no receipt” on screen.
📱 Bonus Hack: Set Up Mobile Alerts
Most UK banks offer real-time text or app alerts for ATM withdrawals.
Hack: Turn on instant notifications in your banking app. If someone ever gets access to your card, you’ll know within seconds.
💬 Final Thought
ATMs remain a convenient tool, but they come with hidden risks if you’re not paying attention. With a little awareness and a few smart habits, you can make your everyday cash withdrawals safer, cheaper, and more efficient.
Stay alert. Stay in control. And always double-check before you press “accept.”
