Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Atm Usa
3 tips to deter ATM smash-and-grab attacks
In recent years, ATMs ̶ especially off-premise ATMs ̶ have become targets for criminals using dramatic smash-and-grab tactics.
The role of cash & ATMs in emergencies
In times of crisis, cash is a valuable, and even life-saving, resource. The American Red Cross lists extra cash – small bills and change – among the basic supplies needed in your emergency survival kit. This underscores the critical role that physical currency plays during emergencies. But how does cash help? There are countless reasons to keep an emergency fund, both for personal reasons and for your business.
What should your credit union budget for in 2025?
As we enter the fourth quarter, many credit union leaders are starting to turn their attention toward planning for 2025. With a myriad of options and new technology, it’s crucial to prioritize services that set credit unions apart while encouraging growth. In this article, we explore several key areas credit unions should consider when preparing their budgets for the coming year. One significant trend shaping the financial landscape is the exodus of big banks from rural communities.
How AI is being used to protect ATMs
The security of ATMs has become a pressing concern for financial institutions, retailers and ATM deployers alike. As criminals become more sophisticated in their methods, the need for advanced security measures has never been greater. Surprisingly, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a powerful tool in the fight against ATM fraud and theft, offering innovative solutions to protect these vital machines and the customers who use them.
Protect your ATMs from rising crime
As experts in the US keep a close eye on ATM crime trends overseas, they have noticed that criminal tactics often make their way across the Atlantic. According to the latest SecureATM industry reporting and locator system from The National ATM Council, the US has seen a fast uptick in ATM-related crime, with nearly $1.5 million in losses within the last 12 months and over $700,000 since April of this year. But how can retailers and financial institutions protect their ATMs from incoming crime?
PCI compliance: Is your credit union prepared for 2024 upgrades?
As the financial landscape continues to evolve, credit unions face many ongoing challenges, not the least of which is maintaining compliance at their ATMs. The latest mandates as stated by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI), are once again aimed at maintaining the safety of member data at self-service ATMs, ITMs, and kiosks that community members use for financial transactions. But what would really happen if your credit union didn’t update ATM security?
Expanding credit union reach: How ATM outsourcing drives growth in new markets
In today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, credit unions face both challenges and opportunities. As big banks continue to close branches, creating banking deserts across the country, credit unions are stepping up to fill the void. But building branches is an expensive outreach strategy. One powerful and affordable option for expansion is ATM outsourcing, which allows credit unions to extend their reach without the hefty investment of building new branches.
Cash: The timeless and perfect birthday gift
As July, August, and September roll around – the most common birthday months in the United States – many find themselves pondering the age-old question: What’s the perfect gift? While trends come and go, one gift stands the test of time: cash. In an era of digital transactions and gift cards, it might seem outdated, but cash remains the ultimate birthday present. Let’s explore why cold, hard currency is still king when it comes to gifting.
Protecting ATMs from jackpotting & other threats: A must for credit unions
In difficult economic times, consumers regularly turn to cash and ATMs for their financial needs. Unfortunately, so do criminals who are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods of attacking ATMs and stealing cash. Even with harsh federal penalties in place, crimes against ATMs continue to grow at an alarming rate. The United States Secret Service Criminal Investigative Division has reported a significant uptick in ATM jackpotting attacks over the last six months.
ATMs offer surprising money-saving benefits for retail customers
ATMs have long been a valuable amenity for merchants, providing additional revenue streams and offering customers increased banking access. But new research has brought to light a surprising new benefit of ATMs – helping consumers save money by making it easier to pay with cash. It may seem counterintuitive that ATM access could help customers spend less, since the whole point of an ATM is to allow cash withdrawals.
Secret Service warns of uptick in ATM jackpotting attempts
The US Secret Service is reporting there has been a increase in ATM jackpotting over the last six months. Traditional malware, black box and man-in-the-middle attacks have been reported in California, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Maryland, Minnesota, New York, North and South Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and Washington. The attacks are believed to be the work of seven criminal groups and have occurred across multiple ATM brands.
Thriving in today's economy: How ITMs empower credit unions
In today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, credit unions face a host of challenges, from staffing shortages to the need to invest in both physical and digital presences. Amid these hurdles, interactive teller machines (ITMs) have emerged as a game-changing solution, offering a unique opportunity for credit unions to streamline operations, enhance member experiences, and drive cost efficiencies. For over a decade, the credit union industry has grappled with a shrinking workforce.
Best practices for preventing “card trapping”
Card trapping is a malicious tactic to steal an ATM user’s card and in the end their money. Generally, this is done by using a device on or inside of a card reader or the ATM’s fascia to block the card from being removed after a transaction. In addition to illicitly obtaining the customer’s card, attackers take steps to obtain the PIN.
Best practices to protect your ATMs from jackpotting
We’ve recently been notified of Man-In-The-Middle attacks that have resulted in attackers jackpotting ATMs. The most recent attacks are connected to unsecure Remote Monitoring Systems (RMS). Still under investigation, these attacks occurred in Pennsylvania and it is believed the attackers are still active, and additional attacks are possible.
Navigating vehicle insurance risks: A holistic approach for lenders
As a lender, it is imperative to proactively manage the risks associated with vehicle insurance to safeguard against uninsured collateral. The average premium exceeding $1,800 annually highlights the financial strain faced by borrowers, often resulting in lapsed insurance coverage. To address these challenges, a borrower-centric approach is essential. Many lenders are realizing the importance of adapting their strategies to address insurance lapses, total losses, repossessions, and delinquencies.
Don’t ask your bank customers if they’re happy. Watch what they do, instead.
Measuring customer satisfaction — the degree to which your customers are happy with the products and services your company provides—is a persistent challenge that seems only to get harder. Four recent perspectives summarized below put a fine point on it: The data we gather is increasingly unreliable or incomplete; and getting it right demands the kind of sophisticated digital infrastructure that most retail organizations, including banks, simply don’t have.
This week: Congress returns, CDRLF grant round opens
Both chambers of Congress return to Washington, D.C., this week, and America’s Credit Unions will be engaged on several fronts to advance credit union priorities.
Helping members prepare for homeownership
Preparation is paramount for first-time homebuyers embarking on the journey of homeownership—especially for members in underserved populations and communities who may be the first in their families to purchase a home. Fortunately, credit unions are uniquely positioned to offer the extra attention and personal service that many first-time homebuyers require. But before they can do that, credit unions must ensure all members can get to that point in the first place.
4 solutions to increase credit union efficiency
Credit unions across the country are facing several key issues impacting their efficiency and ability to serve members through traditional branch channels. Staffing remains an ongoing challenge, with many branches struggling to keep up with fluctuating labor needs. At the same time, costs for labor, equipment, utilities, and services continue to rise steadily. Compounding matters, foot traffic at physical branches has been slow to recover to pre-pandemic levels.
Should you buy your own ATM or choose a turn-key option?
In today’s competitive retail landscape, providing convenient services to customers is essential for success. One such service that has become a staple expectation for consumers is access to in-store ATMs. These cash dispensing machines not only provide consumers with easy access to cash, they also drive foot traffic and increase in-store spending. However, for retailers, the decision to own and operate ATMs themselves comes with a multitude of challenges and responsibilities.
2023 HMDA mortgage lending data now available
Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) Modified Loan Application Register (LAR) data for 2023 is now available on the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council’s (FFIEC) HMDA Platform for approximately 5,089 HMDA filers. The published data contains loan-level information filed by financial institutions and modified to protect consumer privacy. Of note, the annual loan-level LAR data for each HMDA filer is now available online for this year.
Here are 5 steps that credit unions can take to find the right fintechs today
Fintechs have disrupted the status quo by offering streamlined digital solutions that challenge traditional banking models, empowering individuals and businesses with greater control over their finances and democratizing access to financial services. With a focus on user experience, innovation and agility, fintechs continue to reshape the financial landscape by driving increased competition, efficiency and inclusion within the industry.
How to set members up for success in high-demand careers
Credit unions aren’t new to providing funding to help members achieve their higher education goals. Historically, hundreds of cooperatives nationwide have provided lending options for current and new members attending traditional four-year, non-profit institutions, as well as their co-borrowers. Now, with an increasing demand for employees in high-paying skilled trades, there is an opportunity to offer new financing options for career pathways such as aviation, nursing, and energy trades.
What do credit unions really need in a digital branch?
In today’s digital age, credit unions and their members are increasingly turning to self-service interactions driven by technology and artificial intelligence (AI). This has led to lower branch traffic, fewer on-site employees, and a focus on transitioning to digital branch operations. But what should a modern digital branch really include to meet members’ evolving needs?
How retailers can boost ATM security
Operating a retail ATM is becoming riskier as today’s economic stress fuels a rise in cash-based crimes. Even more alarming, online forums are supplying the equipment and training needed for criminals to target ATMs successfully. How can retailers combat this growing threat and protect their ATMs, cash, and customers?
Insourcing vs. outsourcing: Top 3 questions to ask
Ongoing regulatory, competitive, and economic changes in the credit card landscape are driving many credit unions to review their credit card program strategy and evaluate whether to invest in growing an internal program or explore an outsourced solution. As leaders begin an evaluation, consider these three questions as a guide to help frame the decision whether to rely on in-house issuing or seeking an outsourced partnership based on what is best for your credit union and members.
The value of a credit union’s reputation
Your credit union’s reputation is not merely a reflection of your public image, but a tangible asset with measurable impact on the most essential aspects of your credit union’s operations. Today, we explore the analytical and financial ramifications of having a strong reputation for your credit union, and look to several studies to underscore the importance of having a good image.
Striking the right chord: Learning from Taylor Swift and reclaiming the heart of community banking
In an industry as dynamic and fiercely competitive as banking, community financial institutions face a formidable challenge. Mega banks are echoing smaller institutions’ traditionally unique selling propositions—personalized consumer care, the elimination of certain fees and a community focus. Basically, the big guys are trying to be like the little guys.
Empowering women in leadership through practical DEI
Many total rewards decisions once followed a templated approach that met many basic needs, but often overlooked the concerns of specific populations. Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) related to pay, health and career are essential to today’s workforce and require a more nuanced focus. Marginalized employees, including women, come into their own and perform at their best when they’re treated equitably based on policies, practices and cultural experiences.
3 ways credit unions can attract more millennial members
Where did you open your first bank account? For me, it was with a credit union. I still remember how proud I felt, strolling through the glass doors of Washington Trust in Rhode Island to deposit hard-earned tips from a summer job. That first check turned into a lifelong relationship, and years later, I took out my first mortgage with that same credit union. Yet, for others around my age, this isn’t always the case.
How to address increasingly sophisticated phishing and identity theft scams
In the 2023 Annual Data Breach Report from Identity Theft Resource Center, there were 3,205 publicly reported data compromises that impacted an estimated 353,027,892 individuals. This report also highlights a 78% increase in events over 2022 and a 16% decrease in victims as fraud attacks become more refined and targeted. Scammers have become incredibly adept at stealing people’s personal information and using it to commit fraud.
Credit unions say the CFPB proposed overdraft rule is misguided
Although comments on the proposed rule are not due until April 1, credit unions in the South already are blasting the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau for its proposal to limit overdraft fees at large banks and credit unions. “Rome Kraft Employees Credit Union is adamantly opposed to regulation that seeks to limit or alter overdraft services provided by credit unions,” Diane McCoy, president/CEO of the Rome Kraft Employees Credit Union in Rome, Ga. wrote, in a letter to the CFPB.
The connection between deposit-to-loan ratio, consumer retention, & data
A recent BAI report noted that financial institutions (FIs) nationwide are prioritizing deposit growth this year. But that’s nothing new—FIs are constantly trying to boost deposits. What is new, however, are the circumstances FIs must navigate to achieve that desired growth: evolving interest-rate policy, inflation concerns, and a fintech sector that’s rapidly increasing the number of financial transactions it can offer consumers alongside convenient functionalities.
Credit unions: Learn how to use AI while maintaining members’ trust at GAC
Dr. Jennifer Golbeck has complicated feelings about artificial intelligence. The computer scientist and University of Maryland professor hopes people understand why after her presentation on “AI, Connectedness, and the Big Data Future for Financial Services” at America’s Credit Unions’ Governmental Affairs Conference in Washington, D.C., March 4. “It’s complicated—a combination of optimism and caution,” Golbeck says, noting she’s an advocate of trustworthy, responsible AI.
Lessons learned from a legacy of leadership with guest Nick Wodogaza
I have really been looking forward to today’s conversation for a while! I am so excited to have former “retired” CEO Nick Wodogaza on the show this week to talk all about the awesome responsibility of being a leader and what it entails.
How can credit unions use ATM branding to boost brand recognition?
As major banks continue to close branches in rural communities, credit unions are stepping up to fill the void. Where consumers are at risk of living in financial deserts, credit unions are working hard to provide essential financial services to these underserved areas. In these situations, establishing a physical presence is just one step in gaining traction. Brand recognition is also a key component to raising awareness, comfort, and trust.
The true cost of accepting debit and credit cards
Credit and debit cards provide convenience for consumers, but they come at a steep price for retailers. As fraud attempts rise exponentially and processors hike their fees, the true cost of accepting plastic continues to grow every year. Let’s break down the key expenses and risks retailers take on with each consumer card swipe. Today the United States accounts for nearly half of global credit card fraud and these losses are projected to exceed $12.5 billion by 2025.
Understand the potential – and power – of AI - CUInsight
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a buzzword, evoking a mix of confusion, trepidation, and excitement among consumers and businesses alike. We aim to demystify AI’s role, delineating its advantages and disadvantages (for both credit unions and their cardholders) while exploring actionable strategies for leveraging AI responsibly to advance the growth of your business.
2024: The year of the not-for-profit financial cooperative
As we begin 2024, credit unions are poised to embrace the opportunity to support their members. There’s no doubt that credit unions are pillars of strength and resilience, both to their members and the communities they serve, and this year will be no different. While much attention is given to things like the global economy, inflation and interest rates, and the 2024 election cycle, credit unions remain steadfast and reliable financial leaders.
Interchange is the cost of doing business
It’s not just credit unions and financial institutions that would be harmed by the Big Box Bailout bill. America’s small businesses – and the Main Streets and consumers who rely on them – stand to lose a lot of ground to the biggest retailers should this legislation move forward. The current credit card system works: retailers can quickly accept secure payments from their customers, and interchange is the cost of doing business this way.
Capital Corner: A guide to 2024, NCUA edition
At the beginning of each year, it’s tempting to do a “predictions” column, where you make a lot of educated (and uneducated) guesses about the next 12 months. And as a DC observer you do this hoping that the reader won’t hold you accountable for your hits and misses next January. So here is my look ahead at the coming year, pointing out things that seem likely based on what I’m seeing and hearing. This month, I’m focusing on what’s coming down the pike at NCUA and other regulatory agencies.
Membership Minute: To benefit, you have to keep doing it
On New Year’s Day and for several weeks afterward, gyms are often full of people who have made a resolution to get fit. A few weeks into the year, the gym is much quieter. But some people keep coming. They’ve found ways to motivate themselves to continue working out. And once they go enough times over enough weeks, they start to reap the benefits of being stronger or more flexible, of losing weight and even feeling better. That in turn, helps them go and even find joy in their efforts.
Striking the right balance between staffing needs and wants
In the not-too-distant past, we saw quiet quitting, and it appears in 2024 that we are seeing a return to layoffs. For example, Kinecta Credit Union, with 806 full-time equivalent employees, recently laid off 84 employees due to a fall in earnings. And, Kinecta is not alone in this trend. The workplace looks and feels schizophrenic.
Buy Now, Pay Later needs to pay off in 2024
Projections for growth for the buy now, pay later business in 2024 are generally optimistic. But things aren’t all upbeat. Some of the positive items: • A new study by Juniper Research projects that global buy now, pay later transaction value will more than double in the next four years, from $334 billion in 2024 to $687 billion in 2028. Activity will spread to new markets, and in the U.S. and the U.K. BNPL will expand significantly, the report predicts.
You’re invited: Children’s Hospitals Week!
Credit union and industry partner employees are invited to Children’s Hospitals Week (CHW), where we will get to celebrate the Founders Award! It is April 8-11 in Orlando, FL at the Swan and Dolphin. To register, click this link. Use the ‘CMN Hospitals Corporate Partner’ registration type. This link also provides more information about the conference like the agenda, location, and more. CMN Hospitals is waiving the registration fee for any credit union attendee.
3 benefits retailers can enjoy when they switch to smart safes
Brick-and-mortar retailers face a growing cash management crisis. With rising costs and theft, manually handling cash creates unnecessary expenses and losses. Fortunately, smart safes provide automated solutions that can save retailers time, money, and hassle. Here are 3 benefits retailers can enjoy when they switch to smart safe cash management. Counting cash manually takes effort and introduces inevitable human errors.
Nussle: NCUA 3rd-party vendor authority could increase agency’s budget
America’s Credit Unions President/CEO Jim Nussle Thursday wrote to the House Financial Services Committee, outlining concerns with the Strengthening Cybersecurity for the Financial Sector Act, which would grant the NCUA with additional authority to examine third-party vendors. “We believe in a strong NCUA, but we also believe that the NCUA should stay focused on where its expertise lies – regulating credit unions,” wrote Nussle.
Aren't using TCRs yet? You may be missing out...
Staffing, security, and cash handling are all issues that continue to pose significant challenges for credit unions today. And, while many members are taking care of business online, fewer branch employees can quickly lead to longer wait times and other vulnerabilities. But you might be surprised at the ease with which some of these issues can be addressed … with teller cash recyclers (TCRs).
A 4-point vendor management checklist to mitigate risk and keep employees happy
Third parties, particularly fintechs, are generating a lot of interest in the credit union sector. While the NCUA still has not obtained vendor oversight, that doesn’t mean they aren’t diving into vendor due diligence processes. Against this backdrop, the work of the credit union staff leading vendor management has never been more important to their organizations.
Change has changed - Your guide to adapting
2016 feels like a long time ago, right? Towards the end of that year, I wrote about how, unlike the way our brains work, change doesn’t happen linearly. Sidestepping any math, this means people are unprepared for the realities of today, never mind tomorrow. Sadly, few leaders (elected or otherwise) understand this concept. But you, my dear reader and honorary geek, can! We think in a line. A → B → C and so on.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Atm
Contact Atm, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack