Debunking the Myth: The Truth About Double Pressing the Cancel Button in an ATM

Debunking the Myth: The Truth About Double Pressing the Cancel Button in an ATM
#debunked #ATMSecurity
Many users believe that in an ATM machine pressing the cancel button twice helps to protect the PIN from being stolen. This particular belief is a weak myth, as it is of no practical use. This belief, as much as it seems plausible, is simply wrong and it is important to note the facts around it, and what other alternatives exist to keep oneself protected.

First it is important to note that the Press Information Bureau, or PIB, being the official fact-checking body of the Government of India, has publicly declared that this practice absolutely enhances the security of the PIN. This is primarily because the Reserve Bank of India, or RBI, has not ever prescribed this practice as a mandatory step. The practice of double tapping cancel has been a popular recommendation across many spheres of the internet for years, and ironically, people who are doing this believe in the fallacy of protection.

What the Cancel Button Actually Does

The cancel button in an ATM machine has a single function and that is to end a transaction. The cancel button is not designed to protect the ATM from all instances of theft, which can range from the presence of a skimmer, covert cameras or basic shoulder surfing.

Practical Consequence Problems

Routinely check your bank statement and account quarterly and check daily to see if your record balance is “off.” If your statement balances, pull an account history for the last 6 to 12 months and look for transactions that you did not make.