Know ATM Security

A standard ATM comprises of a Control Processing Unit (CPU) to control the user interface and transaction devices; a magnetic or chip card reader to identify the customer;  a PIN pad which is used for security purposes; a secure cryptoprocessor that is generally within a secure enclosure as well; a display  which is used by the customer for performing the transaction;  a touch screen which is used to select the various aspects of the transaction; a record printer designated to provide the customer with a record of his or her transaction; a vault that is used to store the parts of the machinery requiring restricted access and where the money is kept; and the housing which is used for aesthetics and to attach the signage to.

To understand further on the security mechanisms of the machine, you have to know basic things about its vault. This part have mechanisms that may include dispensing, deposit, security sensors (which can be magnetic, thermal, seismic, or gas), locks, and journaling systems or a solid-state device (which records all activities including access timestamps, number of notes dispensed, and others). Aside from this, ATMS also have software to enhance its security and reliability.

Aside from the magnetic stripe and the PIN, the ATM has other security features. To prevent theft involving measures that utilize gas or explosives, the machine has gas suppression systems. These use a specialized detection sensor to detect explosive gas and to neutralize it by releasing a special explosion suppression chemical that changes the composition of the gas and renders it ineffective. It also possesses the Intelligent Banknote Neutralization Systems which concentrates on denying the use of the money inside the machine to a thief. Another safety feature is the random filling of cash in the vault. Schedules when the staff replenishes the money are kept in secret. Furthermore, the money is often kept in cassettes which will dye it if the vault is incorrectly opened. Also, as mentioned earlier, the PIN is required by the machine to verify the customer’s identity and account. Remember that when encoding your PIN, it is recommended that you don’t disclose or expose it to anyone. Nevertheless, there are some alternative methods which can be used to verify your identity like the finger and palm vein patterns, iris, and facial recognition technologies. Furthermore, openings on the customer-side of ATMs are often covered by mechanical shutters to prevent tampering with the mechanisms when they are not in use. Alarm sensors are also installed to alert their operators when doors have been opened by unauthorized personnel.

Laws are actually set by the government or ATM operating body that dictates the measures to be taken when integrity systems fail. Some laws may indicate that a bank may or may not be liable when an attempt is made to dispense a customer's money from an ATM and the money either gets outside of the ATM's vault or exposed in an unsecured fashion. For more, visit this article.