Safety Tips

A college campus is a great place to learn and grow. But a college campus, like any other community, has its share of accidents, crimes, emergencies, and injuries.

Do your part to keep your campus safe and protect yourself and others.

Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) and Credit Card Safety Tips

The invention of the ATM machine has revolutionized how many of us conduct banking business. The ATM machine has allowed for 24 hour-a-day, 7 days-a-week access to our bank accounts. However, this convenience is not without its problems.

There are a number of ATM machines on campus and throughout the city of Starkville. Their availability at all hours may sometimes put individuals at increased risk for victimization depending upon the time and location. We urge you to follow these safety recommendations:

Be aware of your surroundings and take notice of anyone who does not appear to be there for banking purposes.
When you enter you password, position yourself so others may not see the keypad.
Trust your instincts. If someone is nearby who makes you feel uncomfortable, go to another ATM.
After completing your cash withdrawal, use discretion when counting the money. The less visibility, the better.
When using an ATM at night in a low traffic area, try and bring a companion along.

For your account protection:

Select a password that only you know and cannot be determined from items in a wallet or purse. Avoid using your name as the password.
Do not give your password out to anyone under ANY circumstances. If someone calls from the bank and asks for your PIN number for verification, do not give it out. Most banks do not engage in this practice. If you have caller ID, record the telephone number of the caller and notify the police.
Do not write your PIN number down on any conspicuous document.
Do not lend your card to anyone, including your roommate.
Report lost or stolen ATM cards immediately to the bank and/or police.

Today’s thieves do not hesitate to use other’s credit cards for their own profit. Here are a few prevention tips to help prevent illegal use:

Photocopy the front and back of your credit cards and store in a safe, secure place. If your credit cards are stolen, you will have a copy of them for reference when canceling the cards and making the police report.
Monitor your credit card statement closely for signs of unauthorized activity. Immediately report any unauthorized activity to the company and the police.
Do not carry more than one or two credit cards and NEVER leave credit cards or personal checks unattended.
If possible, carry your credit cards separate from your wallet
When you are through with your credit card statement, shred it before placing it in a trashcan. This will prevent someone from rummaging through your trash and obtaining your credit card number.
Tear up or shred pre-approved credit card applications. This will prevent someone from obtaining a credit card in your name.
If you receive a letter from a credit card company stating that you have received one of their credit cards and you have not, notify them immediately.
Beware of vendors selling merchandise or products over the phone. Do not give out your credit card number to any telephone solicitors. Ask instead for an order form to be sent to you.
Always check catalogs to be sure your credit card number is not printed on the cover or mail order form. If it is, contact the company and ask them to immediately remove it.
Remove your address and mail order envelope from catalogs before throwing them away or recycling them.
Be sure you need a credit limit increase before accepting one from your credit card company.

These are a few tips to help you reduce your chances of victimization. For more crime prevention information or assistance, please contact the Crime Prevention Coordinator at 325.9149.

Partners for Protection
325-9149