Viral Claim About ATM Safety Tip Is False, Says Government Fact Check

A message going viral on social media is claiming that pressing the ‘cancel’ button twice before inserting your ATM or debit card can protect you from PIN theft. The post even says that this advice comes from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). However, this claim is false and has not been approved by any official source.

What Does the Viral Message on ATM PIN Theft Say?

The message being widely shared reads:

"A very useful tip while withdrawing funds from an ATM. Press 'cancel' twice before inserting the card. If anyone has set up the keypad to steal your PIN code, it will be cancelled. Please make it a habit as a part of every transaction you make."

It claims that this habit can stop criminals from stealing your PIN through tampered ATM keypads.

What Is the Truth?

The PIB Fact Check team, which is the official fact-checking handle of the Government of India, has confirmed that the claim is fake and misleading. The RBI has not issued any such guideline or tip regarding pressing the ‘cancel’ button to avoid ATM fraud.

There is no evidence that pressing the cancel button twice before using your card can protect against keypad tampering or PIN skimming. In fact, believing in such unverified "hacks" can lead people into a false sense of security.

What Does RBI Actually Recommend?

While the RBI has not endorsed this cancel-button tip, there are several real precautions users should follow while using ATMs:

• Memorise your PIN. Never write it down, especially on your card.
• Never share your PIN or card, even with friends or family.
• Be alert for "shoulder surfers"—people who try to peek at your PIN while you type it.
• Shield the keypad with your hand or body while entering your PIN.
• Don’t take help from strangers while using an ATM or handling cash.
• Always press the ‘cancel’ button before leaving the ATM, just to end your session safely.
• Take your card and transaction slip with you and shred the slip if not needed.
• If your card is lost or stolen, report it to your bank right away.
• Check your bank account after using cheque deposit or card drop ATMs.
• If cash is not dispensed or the card gets stuck, inform your bank immediately.

Conclusion

The claim that pressing the cancel button twice can prevent ATM fraud is false. It is not backed by the RBI or any expert. People should be careful about following or spreading such messages. Always follow trusted safety tips and check with your bank or official fact-checking sources like PIB Fact Check for correct information. 
 
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