A criminal can tamper with an ATM to acquire your PIN or account number. That’s why it’s better to use one inside a bank instead of a free-standing one at a mall or store. Also, ATMs located in dimly lit, less-traveled places put you at risk of being physically robbed of your cash, especially if you choose to count cash at the machine. Wait instead until you are in a safe place: your locked car or your home, for example.