Does the PIN remain safe if you double press the cancel button in ATM? Know what is the truth

Double-Pressing the Cancel Button at ATMs Won’t Protect Your PIN – Here’s the Truth

New Delhi, Sep 8, 2025 – Have you ever pressed the Cancel button twice while withdrawing cash at an ATM, thinking it will keep your PIN safe from hackers? If yes, you’re not alone. This so-called “ATM safety trick” went viral on social media in recent years, convincing thousands of people to follow it. But the truth is – it’s a myth.

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check team has clarified that the claim is completely false. Even the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has never issued such an advisory. In reality, the Cancel button’s only function is to terminate a transaction midway – it has nothing to do with protecting your PIN or preventing data theft.

How the Rumor Spread

This false claim first circulated widely in 2022 and 2023, with viral messages suggesting that pressing the Cancel button before or after entering your PIN would block hackers from stealing your information. Many ATM users adopted the practice out of fear of cyber fraud.

But as PIB has confirmed, the Cancel button simply helps if:

• You entered the wrong option by mistake

• You decide not to withdraw money at the last moment

• You want to stop the transaction midway

It does not provide any cybersecurity benefits.

How ATM PIN Theft Actually Happens

Experts explain that ATM fraud usually occurs through:

• Skimming devices: Hidden card readers attached to ATM slots that copy card data.

• Hidden cameras: Small cameras installed near keypads to capture your PIN as you type.

• Shoulder surfing: Fraudsters standing nearby to peek at your PIN.

In all these cases, pressing the Cancel button twice makes no difference. Criminals rely on physical and digital tricks, not the functioning of ATM buttons, to steal data.

Real Ways to Protect Yourself at ATMs

Instead of relying on viral hacks, here are some genuine safety tips recommended by cybersecurity experts:

1. Cover the keypad with your hand while entering your PIN.

2. Check the ATM machine carefully – avoid using it if you notice loose parts, hidden devices, or anything unusual.

3. Withdraw cash only from well-lit, secure ATMs, preferably inside bank branches.

4. Enable SMS alerts for all transactions to track withdrawals instantly.

5. Change your ATM PIN every 3–6 months for better security.

6. Avoid weak PINs like 1234, your date of birth, or repeating digits.

7. If your card gets stuck or lost, immediately contact your bank and block the card.

These steps are far more effective than pressing any button multiple times.

Why Believing Such Myths Is Risky

Spreading and following such misinformation can create a false sense of security. Users may assume they are safe while ignoring actual preventive measures. Cybercriminals take advantage of this gap in awareness to continue their frauds.

The RBI has repeatedly advised consumers to focus on secure banking practices, not social media “hacks.” Authorities stress that awareness is the best defense against ATM fraud.

Key Takeaways

• Pressing the Cancel button twice at ATMs does not protect your PIN.

• The Cancel button is designed only to abort a transaction.

• ATM frauds occur mainly due to skimming devices, hidden cameras, and negligence.

• Users should adopt practical safety measures like covering the keypad, using secure ATMs, and updating PINs regularly.

Conclusion

ATM myths may spread quickly on social media, but when it comes to financial security, facts matter more than viral tricks. Double-pressing the Cancel button will not save your PIN – but staying alert, cautious, and informed definitely will.