Bank News

What is an ATM? 

An ATM is a device that allows you to withdraw money, pay for services or replenish your account without going to a bank. To put it simply, an ATM is a large iron safe with a computer inside. You need a plastic card and a PIN-code to work with an ATM. All operations are fast and safe. Convenient, isn't it? Especially when the bank is already closed and you urgently need money.

How does an ATM work from the inside? 

Inside an ATM, there is a metal box with cells that hold money. Each cell is for bills of a certain denomination. For example, some cells are for 200 KGS and others for 500 KGS.

The ATM also has:

• Keyboard and screen — for data entry and control.
• Camera - records who is using the device.
• Bill counter - checks the money.
• Communication module - transmits data about each transaction to the bank.

Interesting fact: if you deposit money through an ATM, it goes into a separate drawer, not to other bills.

What can you do through an ATM? 

An ATM is not just about withdrawing cash. You can use it for:

• Refill your phone balance.
• Pay for light, water or a fine.
• Transfer money to another card.
• Find out the balance on your account.

You only need a PIN-code for any operation. Everything is simple! 

How to use an ATM. Brief instructions

Every bank has a named ATM. The good news is that they are all arranged similarly. And if you understand how to work with them on the example of the card and ATMs, for example, Bank Kompanion, you can easily cope with others.

Checking the card balance

When you approach an ATM you will see a window for the card. It is often illuminated. Insert the card - face up (where the name of the bank is) and the magnetic stripe forward.

After a couple of seconds, the ATM will ask you to enter the card's PIN code. This is the 3 digits on the back.

When the menu opens you can choose the language of service - Kyrgyz, Russian or English. And then click on “Balance inq.” and the system will offer to display the information on the screen or print it on the receipt. Choose the format that is convenient for you.

After the service, a question will appear on the screen: “Do you wish to make another transaction?” If you answer “Yes,” you will be taken back to the main menu.

If you answer “No,” the ATM will give your card away.

To withdraw money, the initial algorithm is similar.

But after entering the PIN-code and choosing the language of service, you need to click on “Withdraw money” and choose the currency and amount. You can choose from the amounts on the screen or write the amount you need by selecting the “Other amount” option.

Now you just have to wait a couple of seconds for the ATM to dispense the money and answer the question, “Would you like to receive a receipt upon completion of the transaction?” and take the card.

How to find the nearest ATM? 

Simply open a 2gis map or Google Maps and type “ATM near me” into the search engine. The app will show you all the nearest available locations.

ATMs are typically located:

• near bank branches;
• in large shopping centers;
• on gas and train stations.        

How is the ATM secure? 

Modern ATMs are not only convenience, but also security. They are protected from break-ins by special sensors. If the ATM is hit or tries to open, an alarm will go off, and security guards will arrive at the place.

Some models even release smoke or stain the money with paint so it can't be used.

How does the ATM interact with the bank? 

Every transaction goes through the bank. For example, if you withdraw money, the ATM sends a request to the bank, “Is there money in the account?” The bank replies: “Yes, it's fine!” And the ATM dispenses the bills. All this takes only a few seconds.

The ATM works on the mains, so if the lights go out, operations may be interrupted. But don't worry: the card will be returned and the money will remain on the account.

How to protect yourself from fraudsters? 

To prevent the PIN-code from being stolen, follow simple rules:

• Use ATMs in crowded and well-lit places.
• When entering PIN-code, cover the keyboard with your hand and do not leave your card in the ATM.
• Pay attention to the ATM: if something looks strange, do not use it and inform the bank.

Over the years, ATMs have become safer and safer, making it harder for fraudsters to steal your data.

What should you do if the ATM doesn't return your card? 

In such a case, the main thing is to stay calm and write down the ATM number, time and date of the incident. Then contact the bank to which the ATM belongs. After the collectors take your card to the bank branch, you will receive a call from the bank and you can collect your card.

Tips for first-time users. If this is your first time using an ATM, that's okay. The devices are intuitive, and the screen displays prompts. The main thing is to follow the instructions and take your time.