I was using an ATM at Walmart when it froze on me. My pin number was in the mach

Question

I was using an ATM at Walmart when it froze on me. My pin number was in the machine, the account opened. I could not get the machine to cancel, or release my account. I was stuck standing at the machine for almost an hour waiting for help. Walmart told me it wasn't their machine, even thought the phone number to call was 1800 Walmart for help.

I had visions of my checking and savings being drained as I stood there feeling trapped and helpless. I called the 1800walmart number on the machine, which put me on permanent hold. I demanded (I started to panic) for a Store Manager to come to my aide. I even called my bank, who said it's not our ATM we can't help you.

Instead I guess I should have asked the bank and canceled my card. I did not know if money was going to come out. I did not know if the next person would access my account.

Shamefully I lost my temper and slammed my open hand on the touch screen while talking to the manager. To my surprise the screen shattered. I ended up paying Walmart $800.00 for the inconvenience and my temper. I was informed by Walmart that no one stopped me from walking away from the ATM machine. I was not stuck protecting my assests. I could have left anytime I wanted.

So what does one do when an ATM stalls with your information in the system?

Explanation / Answer

Well this is a very nasty situation. First of all I would check if the ATM doesn't have a telephone number listed on it.

If it doesn't have a telephone number, check for a store manager. If they can't help or are not willing to help, check if it's got a powercord you can unplug (most of them don't unfortunately). Ask the store manager if they can unplug it for you. Insist that they give you the contact details of the ATM's managing company and that they contact them promptly.

If that doesn't work get your card cancelled and tell your bank that no transactions should be allowed. Aside from that, there's not much you can do unless you want to wait around.

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