Protect Your ATM Machine with These 5 ATM Security Tips

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These 5 ATM security tips will help you protect your one and only business asset: your ATM machine. Aside from the machine itself, which cost you a few thousand dollars, that machine houses hundreds of dollars in cash as well as access to consumer data. 

To protect yourself, your customers, and the banks, follow these 5 security tips. They’re simple and cost much less than the consequences of an attack.

Potential ATM Machine Security Risks

There are two types of risks you face operating an ATM machine: physical attacks and logical attacks.

Physical attacks involve tampering with the machine itself whether it be vandalism or an attempt to break into the safe, uproot the machine, and access the cash inside. 

Logical attacks involve accessing the mainboard and other internal electronics to breach the software or hardware. If successful, logical attackers are able to control the machine or cause it to malfunction therefore giving them access to cash without having to break into the safe.

There are a number of ways fraudsters and scammers can tamper with an ATM machine in order to access users’ card and PIN information. As an ATM owner, check your machine carefully every time you visit it to protect your machine and your customers.

Pinhole Cameras

Pinhole cameras can be inserted into ATM machines in order to record users’ PIN numbers. This is why it’s wise to cover the PIN pad with the other hand when using it because, as the name suggests, the camera is not obviously visible. However, loose parts around the card slot or keypad can indicate the presence of a pinhole camera.

Fake Fronts

Fake fronts are card or cash capture and PIN capture devices. They provide fraudsters with quick access to cash. By attaching an entirely fake front to an ATM machine, fraudsters are able to capture PINs and money.

Skimmers and Shimmers

Skimmers are tools that attach to an ATM’s card slot and secretly capture card details when withdrawals are made. A shimmer is smaller than a skimmer and is used to collect data from a card’s chip. 

An unusually bulky card slot indicates that a skimmer is being used. Misaligned or misprinted stickers are another red flag. These indicate an attempt to cover up where a device has been installed.

Lebanese Loop

A Lebanese loop is a device that traps a card inside the machine. When this happens, the ATM will keep asking for a PIN since it can’t read the card. This leads users to believe that the card has been swallowed by the machine, which sometimes happens. 

However, in the case of a Lebanese loop, once you abandon the machine, the fraudster then has the opportunity to collect your card. Therefore, if you lose your card inside of an ATM machine, call a technician to retrieve it or immediately cancel the card with your bank and get a replacement with a new card number.

Counterfeit PIN Pad

Counterfeit PIN pads will feel loose, thick, or sponge-like. This is because there is a device on top of the legitimate PIN pad that is capturing the PIN while recording it correctly on the ATM to complete the transaction. This way, users remain unsuspecting because the transaction takes place as usual. Numbers are typically transferred instantly via WiFi to the fraudster to use later.

To protect yourself and your customers from these attacks, follow the following 5 ATM security tips:

5 ATM Security Tips

1. Place Carefully

First, place your ATM machine carefully. Not only should you consider the location of the establishment itself, but also the location within the establishment.

Plan ahead for locations with high crime rates like gas stations, convenience stores, pawn shops, etc. Make sure there are security cameras in the area or provide your own. Cameras not only deter criminals, they also provide a real-time feed of your ATM machine and its activity.

Place your ATM in an open, well-lit area. Position the machine to have as many eyes on it as possible, whether it be in a busy aisle or in view of cashiers and other employees.

Finally, limit physical access to the case to prevent logical attacks and tampering. If the machine is against the wall or blocked by shelves or other furniture, it will be difficult for scammers to access points of ingress.

2. Bolt Down the Machine

Bolting down the ATM machine prevents strangers from moving and manipulating it. You will want to get permission from the location owner first as you will have to bolt the machine to the location’s floor, but damage is minimal and residual blemishes can be covered up easily. It will be worth it in the end to prevent any physical attacks.

Your machine should come with 4 pre-drilled holes, one in each corner of the base. Then, with a hammer drill and ½” concrete bits, you will drill about 4” deep. You can also finish with red heads, special concrete anchors (½” x 4.25”) that are hammered through the hole in the base plate and then into the concrete. You can also instruct the ATM installer to bolt the machine down for you.

3. Restrict Access to the ATM Case

Logical attacks require access to the mainboard or other internal electronics, so you will want to secure the top of the case and the seam on the side. If there are gaps, criminals can access cabling between the mainboard and dispenser and gain control of the machine or cause it to malfunction. 

You can either fill the seams or place an internal barrier between the case and the critical electrical components. This creates a second barrier which can deter a criminal even if he or she succeeds in breaching the seam.

Finally, limit the number of people who have access to the ATM. Provide keys to only a few trusted individuals as needed and change them periodically if possible.

4. Regularly Update Software

Logical attacks require access to software. The older the software, the easier it is to breach because it will lack modern safeguards. This is why it’s important to keep software updated. Criminals will target machines with software security holes, so establish a schedule to ensure you don’t forget or neglect to update your software with the latest security upgrades.

5. ATM Insurance

If all else fails, hopefully you will have an insurance policy. ATM insurance won’t prevent an attack, but it can protect you after the fact. In the worst case scenario, you will want to be able to recoup any losses. Fortunately, ATM insurance is relatively inexpensive.

If you own your own store or business where your machine is located, see if you can add the ATM machine to your existing business insurance policy. If not, or if your machine is located in a standalone location, shop around for an ATM insurance policy.

Like any other insurance policy, ATM insurance can be customized to meet your specific wants, needs, and budget. You will want a policy that covers your machine and cash. The premium rate is based on the amount of coverage, the company providing it, and your budget—your policy can be customized to cover any potential risks you want to mitigate.

Consider coverage for any of these scenarios:

  • Stolen cash
  • Removal of the machine
  • Repairs or replacement due to physical damage
  • Robbery while cash is loaded or unloaded

General liability coverage can range from about $400-$700 a year. For many people, it’s well worth it for peace of mind.

Protect Yourself and Your Customers with These Security Tips

Preventing attacks—whether physical or logical—protects your ATM machine, yourself, your customers, and the banks that have to deal with fraudulent transactions and replacement cards. Use these 5 ATM security tips to safeguard your machine, but also be on the lookout for any signs of tampering.

Purchasing a camera is the best way to prevent any kind of attack. Not only will it deter criminals, but with your own camera you can also always keep an eye on your machine and make sure no one tampers with or lingers around it.

The better prepared you are, the less likely you are to experience an attack. And remember to always check for signs of tampering.

Choosing ATM Equipment: Everything You Need to Know About Refurbished ATM Machines

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If you are new to the ATM business, you might be shopping around for equipment and wondering which is a better deal: new or refurbished ATM machines. 

If you are an experienced ATM owner, you might wonder what else is out there. Maybe you purchased new at first and are now considering adding refurbished ATM machines to your business. Or the opposite: you first purchased refurbished equipment and now wonder if that was the right move.

In this article we cover some main differences between new and refurbished ATM machines, particular advantages of refurbished ATM machines, and what red flags to look for. 

Purchasing ATM equipment is a big deal. It’s a $2,000+ investment and is usually your biggest startup cost. Not every ATM business looks the same. So we want to make sure that you make the best decision for your business. Let’s weigh our options: 

5 Differences Between New and Refurbished ATM Machines

1. Lifespan

Probably the most obvious difference between new and refurbished ATMs is the lifespan. A new ATM machine has an expected lifespan of about 15 years. So depending on the age of the machine, you could still get a good 10 or more years out of a refurbished one.

Refurbished doesn’t necessarily mean old. People sell their used machines for all kinds of reasons: they didn’t like the model, they decided another machine better suits their needs, they changed their mind about owning an ATM altogether, etc.

When shopping for a refurbished machine, consider how many years minimum you’d like to get out of it and compare that to the age of the machine. 

2. Technology

A new ATM machine is going to come equipped with the latest technology, all of the best bells and whistles. A refurbished machine won’t, necessarily, but it will still perform all of the same basic functions.

When it comes to technology, you need to consider “nice to have” versus “need to have.” If you are an experienced ATM owner, you probably have a good idea of what features you for sure want your ATM to have and which you can do without, especially if it saves you a buck to let it go.

If you are a new ATM owner, you don’t have this experience, so you might expect and even want those bells and whistles at first. Only through experience will you be able to determine what features to budget for.

3. Usability

Technology improves with each new model. Customer feedback is used to make each upcoming machine better than the last. Therefore, typically, improved technology makes newer machines easier to use. So if you’re looking to purchase your first ATM or aren’t particularly tech savvy, you might want to play it safe and go with a machine that will be easy for you to handle.

On the other hand, if you’ve been in the ATM business a while and have experience with older machines, you probably won’t have a problem navigating the technology on an older, refurbished model.

4. Compliance

Just as technology changes, so do regulations. New ATMs are going to be fully compliant right out of the gate, meeting ADA and EMV requirements. This isn’t a guarantee with refurbished ATM machines. However, upgrades are often available.

If you are looking at a refurbished machine that isn’t completely compliant but will meet standards with an upgrade, you might opt to go that route if the total still comes out to be less than just purchasing a fully-compliant, new machine.

5. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

This one is tricky. If you purchase a discounted, refurbished ATM machine but then have to invest in a number of upgrades, you might not end up saving as much money as you’d hoped. 

In this case, it might be worth it to just purchase a fully-loaded, new ATM. So do a little research and some math before purchasing so that you know exactly how much your initial investment will be.

Additionally, ATMs are electronic machines. They have intricate moving parts, electrical components, and software that all need to be maintained and can fail at a moment’s notice. So this goes for both new and refurbished ATM machines. You should know you can’t predict certain glitches and failures.

So in terms of overall repair costs associated with your machine, it’s really a gamble either way. The main price point to consider is the cost of purchasing the machine itself. A 1-year-old, refurbished machine, for example, is going to be hundreds of dollars cheaper than a brand new machine. So it might be worth it to go refurbished in that case.

But again, if you’re looking at an older refurbished machine that will need a number of upgrades, consider the overall price difference once you’ve added up all of the expenses.

5 Advantages of Refurbished ATM Machines

1. Cost Effective

Just like any other high-end electronics, the newer they are the quicker they depreciate. Refurbished doesn’t mean old, it just means not brand new. So you could find a like-new ATM for hundreds of dollars less than a new machine just because you aren’t the first owner.

Or, you could find an older machine for even less than the like-new one. Machines will get cheaper with age, but that does not necessarily have anything to do with the quality of the machine. Quality depends on the machine itself and its maintenance. So, hands down, refurbished ATM machines are cheaper to purchase than new ones. 

2. Lower Overhead

If you opt to save a few bucks and purchase a refurbished ATM instead of a brand new one, that allows you to profit quicker. Before you can profit off of your ATM transactions, you have to first make your return on investment (ROI). The smaller your investment, the quicker you can pay yourself back, and the quicker you can start making a profit.

The quicker you start making a profit, the more time you will spend profiting from your business. Say you purchase a brand new ATM for $3,000. You average 180 transactions a month at $2.50 each. You won’t start making a profit for about 7 months. So in a year, you have 5 profitable months.

On the other hand, if you only invest $2,000 in your machine, you start profiting in about 4 months allowing you to profit the other 8 months of the year. So not only do you invest less, but you also make more.

3. Long Lifespan

When we talk about refurbished ATM machines, we aren’t necessarily talking about 10-year-old machines. While you could get five good years out of that machine, you could also find a refurbished machine that is only a couple of years old. Even a 7-year-old machine has about 8 years of life left.

With an average lifespan of about 15 years, there’s still a lot of profit to be made from many refurbished machines. Just remember to check the age before purchasing.

4. Ready to Use

Most new ATMs are shipped directly from the factory. That means they need to be programmed during installation before they are ready to use. Refurbished machines, however, can often be programmed before they are shipped.

Purchasing a pre-programmed machine saves you time and potentially money if you don’t have to pay someone on-site to program your machine. And again, the sooner your machine is operational, the sooner you can start making money!

Plus, since refurbished equipment has already been in circulation, you’ll be equipped with plenty of reviews so you have a better idea of what to expect from your equipment. And in most cases you don’t even sacrifice product guarantees, warranties, upgrades, or customer service; these typically follow the equipment whether new or used. So you get the same support either way.

5. Environmentally Conscious

This may or may not matter to you, but it does make a compelling case for purchasing refurbished. Let’s consider what “refurbished” means:

Refurbished means the equipment is cleaned, polished, repaired, and upgraded. It gets a second, third, fourth life. Without these chances, a discarded machine gets sent to a landfill which is harmful to the environment. The more we can extend the life of electronic equipment such as ATM machines, the less waste and pollution we create. 

Just because a machine is used does not mean it isn’t fully-functional. So the more we can refurbish and reuse equipment, the less demand there is for brand new equipment to be manufactured. We must produce less to pollute less. 

The United States alone is responsible for 14% (63 million tons) of the world’s electronic waste. Only about 20% of electronics are recycled. So by purchasing refurbished equipment, you help cut down on the 80% of waste created by new equipment. When you purchase refurbished equipment, you fight back against consumer culture focusing on “need to have” versus “nice to have.”

5 Things to Look For When Purchasing Refurbished ATM Machines

1. Compliance

Depending on the age of the equipment and the quality of the refurbishment, a used ATM machine might not automatically meet current compliance standards. So before you commit to purchasing a refurbished machine, you need to check for the following: 

Is it upgradable? Does it have a headphone jack? Is the highest touchpoint less than 4’ 8”? Is it EMV enabled or can a kit be installed? 

Some machines are just too old to be upgraded. Others are too costly. The Triton 9100, for example, needs a new keyboard before an EMV kit can be installed. Therefore, it is too expensive to make compliant. After calculating the cost of the keyboard and kit, you might as well just purchase a new machine. 

Similarly, the Cress/Tranax MB210 is so old that no upgrade is available. This hurts ATM operation, ability to keep up in the market, and essentially your ATM business as a whole.

2. Age

Think twice before purchasing a machine over 10 years old. Since most machines work well for about 15 years, the closer your machine is to that mark the less life you can expect to get from it. 

Furthermore, check the ATM version to make sure it’s upgradable. Without upgrades, your service will suffer. If the manufactured date is before 2012, it will probably need an ADA upgrade. But funding this will likely counteract any savings on the machine itself. 

And of course, before you purchase a machine, make sure it works. Calculate repair costs and make sure you are still getting a good deal after it’s all said and done. 

3. Discontinued Models

You can find crazy deals on machines that no longer function on ATM networks. They’ve been discontinued and are only valuable for parts. Don’t get taken by surprise. You don’t want to purchase a machine just to find out that it doesn’t work with your provider.

Examples of discontinued ATM machines include the Triton 9600, Triton 9700, WRG Apollo, and WRG Genesis. If you come across or have experience with any of these, ATMDepot.com provides recommendations for similar replacement machines.

4. Refurbishment Quality

Not all used ATM machines are advertised as refurbished, so inquire before you buy. You also want to check the quality of the refurbishment. A quick, poor, “blow and go” job will end up costing you more money down the line on repairs and maintenance that should have been taken care of during the refurbishment.

A certified refurbishment, by definition, should include specific standards checks, detailing, and upgrades. Decals should be replaced, the newest software installed, and security updated.

A well-refurbished ATM machine can and should last at least 10 years. But a bad refurbishment can end up costing you more in the long run than a new machine.

5. Availability

It isn’t wise to go into the market for a refurbished machine with a specific make and model in mind. Unless you have time to wait, refurbished machines are sold based on availability, so you have to be willing to compromise and choose from what’s in stock.

Should You Purchase Refurbished ATM Machines?

Now that you know what to expect from new vs. refurbished ATM machines, hopefully you have a better idea of what ATM equipment is best for you. 

What it really comes down to is experience. If you’ve been in the ATM business for a while, know your way around a machine, and are looking to add more ATMs to your business, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with purchasing a certified refurbished ATM machine.

If you are a first-time ATM owner, it might be a better idea to purchase new. It’s going to be easier to use and you’ll get to experience the best and newest technology so that you can learn a little bit more about what you can expect from a typical machine. Here you can check out our new and refurbished ATM machines. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us! Remember, each ATM business looks a little different. We can help you find what works for you.

Choosing ATM Equipment: Pros and Cons of an Outdoor ATM

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Should you operate an indoor or outdoor ATM? If you’re thinking about purchasing an ATM machine, one of the first things you have to determine is where you’re going to put the machine. 

You’ve probably seen and even used an ATM both indoors and outdoors. But what are the major differences when it comes to owning an ATM? We’ve got your answers.

Here we’ve outlined the major pros and cons of operating an outdoor ATM, but it essentially comes down to availability. What spaces are even options for you? Let’s start there.

Choosing a Location

Choosing a location, or a place to put your machine, is one of the very first things you have to do before you even order your machine. Our article Choosing an ATM Location goes in-depth on where to look for locations, the best ATM locations, and how to negotiate with location owners to develop a partnership.

It’s a great place to start when it comes to scouting for locations. If you already have a location picked out and you have the option to place an ATM machine either indoors or outdoors at that location, then skip on down to the pros and cons of an outdoor ATM.

If you have not settled on a location yet, here are some things you need to consider:

First, do you already own a business where you plan to use the ATM? Do you think you might lease a plot or property where you’ll install the ATM? Or do you think you’ll approach local business owners to gauge their need for an ATM machine and potentially start a partnership?

Whatever your answer is (or ends up being) might determine for you whether you need an indoor or outdoor ATM. Once you settle on a location, you might find that there isn’t room indoors for the ATM. Or the opposite might be true. The location might not be able to facilitate an outdoor ATM machine. 

If you end up working with a site location owner, his or her preference might affect the decision as well. Maybe there’s room indoors for the ATM but the location owner doesn’t want to give up that space. Or alternatively, maybe the site location owner would rather the ATM be inside to get customers into the store.

Next are some pros and cons of outdoor ATM machines.

Pros of Choosing an Outdoor ATM

There are some clear benefits of operating an outdoor ATM. First, you have the potential to earn more revenue. Second, you potentially have more flexible access to your machine. And third, they can be space savers.

Save Space

If you own a retail store or business, or if you are partnering with a site location owner and you want to add an ATM to the business, there’s a chance the space isn’t available inside the store. 

Maybe there’s too much inventory and to get rid of something will just cause you to break even with ATM revenue. Or maybe the only space available isn’t visible enough or convenient for customers.

If this is the case, you might want to consider putting an ATM outside of the store. It can be close to the front door, in view of the register or desk so that it can still be monitored during business hours even though it’s not inside. 

That way you don’t have to get rid of anything else inside of the store to make room. And you don’t have to worry about owning a machine that no one sees or uses. The more visible and easier to access the machine, the more users and therefore more revenue for you.

Earn More Revenue

There’s a good chance an outdoor ATM could warrant more users than an indoor ATM. It depends on your specific location, of course, but an indoor ATM might be seen more by people who are already customers while an outdoor ATM is available to all passers by.

Additionally, and this is the biggest benefit, you have the ability to offer 24-hour access to an outdoor ATM. An indoor ATM is really only “in business” during the hours of operation of the store or business where it’s housed. So you increase the opportunities for transactions and therefore earn more revenue that way.

Not only do users have 24-hour access to an outdoor ATM, but you do too.

More Flexibility

Unless the site location owner gives you a key or access to the store after hours, you really only have access to your machine while the store is open. If you have to refill cash or receipt paper or conduct any maintenance or cleaning on the machine, you have a window in which to do so. 

This might not be so convenient for you if you have a day job or other obligations which overlap with the store hours. If the ATM is outdoors, though, you can access the machine when it’s most convenient for you regardless of whether or not the store is open for business.

You could of course coordinate with the site location owner to perform certain routine tasks or maintenance in your absence. But it might just be more convenient to house the ATM outside if you have the option. 

Plus, the more responsibilities you put on the site location owner, the more revenue you have to spit. You’ll have to make that deal in your site location agreement (SLA). So it might be more cost effective for you to handle those responsibilities on an outdoor ATM rather than leave yourself at the mercy of the site location owner.

Although there are plenty of great reasons to operate an outdoor ATM when you have the option, there are unfortunately some risks as well.

Cons of Choosing an Outdoor ATM

An outdoor ATM is not always the best option. It’s perfectly fine to operate an outdoor ATM if that is your only option. But if you are deciding between indoor and outdoor you might want to consider some of the downfalls associated with operating an outdoor ATM.

First, they can be more expensive to set up and maintain. Second, you could lose out on revenue depending on where you’re located. Last, you have to compete with the weather.

Weather Constraints

On particularly hot or cold days, or days when it’s raining, snowing, or particularly windy, users will probably prefer to use an indoor ATM rather than an outdoor ATM. However, if you are the only ATM for blocks, you might retain those users by default. But if your neighbor has an indoor ATM, you might lose business to him or her on days when the weather isn’t great.

Loss of Revenue

Besides losing customers due to weather, you could also lose customers who prefer to use indoor ATMs for safety reasons. Indoor ATMs are less accessible to vandals which makes it less likely that a user’s information will be compromised on an indoor ATM. 

Indoor ATMs are also under the watchful eye of the store or business owner as well as other patrons. So this could encourage users to use an indoor ATM as well. But again, if you’re in a location where ATMs are scarce, you might still get a lot of business on an outdoor ATM regardless of these safety concerns.

But you still have to make sure customers feel safe using your outdoor ATM.

Additional Expenses

An outdoor ATM is available to users 24 hours 7 days a week. But it’s also available then to vandals and thieves. To prevent damage and tampering on your outdoor ATM, you’ll want to invest in a quality security system. You might also need to provide your own lighting if your ATM is located in a dim area.

You might even be required to provide certain security measures based on the safety and security laws of your state and municipality. 

Outdoor ATMs are also vulnerable to the weather. Exposure to the elements could cause you to get less life out of your ATM if it’s outside rather than inside. To extend the life of your machine, you should invest in a cover or awning for your outdoor ATM.

Most ATMs are weather protected which can help prevent unnecessary damage, but exposure can still affect the lifespan of your ATM. Weatherproof and weatherized ATMs are both made to withstand harsh weather conditions. 

A weather resistant ATM, however, is not going to be as resilient as a weatherproof ATM. So you’ll definitely need some sort of cover for a weather resistant ATM. And all outdoor ATMs should be temperature protected for the best results.

Other Outdoor ATM Options

If you’re still unsure whether to go with an indoor or outdoor ATM, you could look into a through-the-wall (TTW) ATM. Or, if you are considering purchasing an ATM for outdoor events, a mobile ATM could be the way to go.

Through-the-Wall (TTW) ATM Machines

Through-the-wall (TTW) ATM machines can be set up to have the chassis (front) facing outside while the interface (back) remains inside the building. TTW ATMs are heavier and bulkier than other ATMs because the interface has to be inserted into the wall extending into another room. 

You might see a TTW ATM in an office building or lobby where the front or screen faces out toward the customers and the interface extends into the next room that is locked and only accessible to authorized personnel. But to facilitate this, you have to have the hole cut in the wall for installation.

So this might not be the best option if you are considering an outdoor ATM due to space concerns. However, if you have indoor space but want the 24-hour access of an outdoor machine, consider a TTW ATM where customers can use the ATM outside but you can safely load cash from inside the store either during business hours or behind locked doors.

If that’s the case, a TTW ATM is more accessible to users while also offering better security.

Mobile ATM Machines

Mobile ATM machines are pretty much intended for outdoor use. They are great options for fairs, farmers markets, concerts, etc. Any major event where attendees have the option to purchase merchandise or make donations is the perfect place for an ATM.

Rather than carry an excess amount of cash on them, patrons can withdraw the exact amount they need for their purchases when it’s necessary and minimize the risk of extra cash being lost or stolen.

Since mobile ATMs are intended for temporary, pop-up, outdoor events, they are often equipped with overhead lights and security cameras since the location will vary. But of course your placement should be secure as well. You want the ATM in an area with a lot of foot traffic, not isolated. This is better for increasing transactions but also for security.

Make sure the location is well-lit, under watchful eye, and protected by a tent in the case of inclement weather. However, mobile ATMs are built to withstand the worst weather conditions. They are typically water-resistant and include advanced temperature control systems to heat them up or cool them down depending on the season.

When to Choose an Outdoor ATM

There are just as many pros as cons to choosing an outdoor ATM machine. So there’s a chance you might still be on the fence. In summary, then, remember these main points:

  • The safety concerns associated with outdoor ATMs need to be offset by adequate lighting, lots of foot traffic, and a first-rate security system.
  • Although outdoor ATMs can be more expensive to maintain, they typically receive more transactions—enough to justify the expense. Just calculate your investment and set your surcharge accordingly to reach your ROI as soon as possible.

If you can meet these requirements with an outdoor location, you have the opportunity to make more of a profit than you would with an indoor ATM. Weigh your options carefully and contact us if you have any questions!

5 Reasons to Start Your ATM Business with a New ATM Machine vs. a Refurbished ATM Machine

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The question of whether to purchase a new ATM machine or a refurbished ATM machine is an important one for any bank or business owner. But it might be even more important if you’re just getting started in the ATM business. Without experience, you really want to know what you can expect. And you want to do it right the first time.

In this article, we will compare new ATM machines to refurbished ones focusing on why it might be better to go new if you are new to the ATM business. You will want to consider lifespan, technology, ease of use, compliancy, and total cost of ownership (TCO).

1. Longer Lifespan

The lifespan of ATM equipment depends upon exposure to the elements and rapidity of new updates. However, you can expect a new ATM machine to last around 15 years.

A well-refurbished ATM machine can last around ten years, all things considered. But you obviously get more years out of a new ATM machine. Additionally, that lifespan can be extended  with routine maintenance, consistent repair and service, upgrades, and refurbishments on the machine you already own. 

2. Latest Technology

Second, a new ATM machine is going to come equipped with the latest technology. While a refurbished ATM machine will perform the same basic functions as a new one (deposits, withdrawals, balance checks, etc.), there is some new technology that you won’t find yet in refurbished machines.

Depending on the model, new technology could include Windows 10, cash recycling, and video terminals on Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs). These features could make or break your business when faced with competition.

If you’re new to the ATM business, you might want to enter the game with the latest hardware, software, features, and functions. Then, as you get more familiar with the machines, if you decide to purchase more or need to replace existing machines you can opt for a refurbished version based on your experience of what works well for you and what is maybe “nice to have” but not “need to have”.

3. Easier to Use

To piggyback on number 2, the newer technology typically makes the machines more user-friendly. That goes for both your ATM visitors and you as the operator. A video terminal, for example, might draw more attention to your machine and gain the trust of passers-by. But if you need to update graphics or input functionalities, typically the operator menu is going to be easier to use the newer it is. 

Older technology can be complicated. That’s one of the reasons new technology is developed: to improve usability. So if you are new to ATM machines, you might want to start out with a new one at least until you get more familiar with it. 

4. Automatic Compliancy

ATM technology improves to make utilization quicker and easier. And additional features are designed and added to address customer needs and feedback. This includes accessibility. As regulations change, so must ATM features, and you must remain compliant to continue to operate your machine. 

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), for example, requires that ATM machines be accessible to people who are blind, deaf, and wheelchair bound. New ATM machines must be developed to meet these needs and associated regulations. So, when you purchase a new machine, you know you are already compliant.

Older machines might have been compliant at the time they were manufactured, but regulations change as customer needs change. Older, refurbished machines can be adapted to meet current regulations, but you don’t have to worry about it at all if you purchase your equipment brand new.

EMV compliancy is another concern. For increased security, more and more debit cards come equipped with a microchip. This microchip can be entered into an EMV card reader instead of swiping the card stripe on the back. To be compliant, your ATM machine must have an EMV card reader. These can be added to machines not already equipped, but again, new ATM machines will already have it.

5. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

This category is actually pretty even on the scales in most cases. All ATMs have intricate moving parts, electrical components, and software that needs to be regularly updated. Any of these areas could malfunction at any time. It’s rare, but it’s possible.

Buying an ATM outright, brand new is going to be more expensive than refurbished. But refurbished machines are older and may or may not come equipped with the latest software and compliancy features. This means you might end up having to purchase upgrade kits separately on top of any necessary maintenance down the road.

However, the quality of refurbished ATM machines is not the same across the board. You could get a refurbished ATM machine that has been completely rebuilt or one that has just been cleaned and polished. Therefore, new and refurbished ATM machines are similarly reliable; it just depends on the individual machine and its upkeep.

In the next section, we’ll tell you what to look for if you are still considering a refurbished ATM machine.

Risks Associated with Poorly Refurbished ATM Machines

You might find a really good deal on a refurbished ATM machine, but you will want to question the quality of the refurbishment. Worst case scenario, the job is a “blow and go,” meaning the job is done quickly in an effort to move on to the next job sooner. 

These refurbishments will include cleaning and probably new decals making the machine look nice but not really taking time on fixing any internal issues. Obviously you’ll want to avoid these. This is where purchasing a refurbished machine can actually end up costing you more than a new one. If the refurbishment is sub-par, the money you save on the purchase will just go into service, maintenance, and upgrades.

All of the refurbished ATM machines listed on ATMDepot.com, however, are certified refurbished. This means that they have undergone specific standards checks. They are cleaned, detailed, and updated. Decals are replaced, the newest software is installed, and security is updated. This is what you want to look for in a refurbished ATM machine.

The downfall here is that even though refurbished machines can in most cases be purchased good as new, your options are based on availability. So if you’ve been researching specific brands and models that you might be interested in, there’s no guarantee that a certified refurbished one of your preference will be available.

The last thing to look out for when shopping for refurbished machines is discontinued models. The Triton 9600, Triton 9700, WRG Apollo, and WRG Genesis for example can only be used for parts. If you see one of these advertised cheap, keep in mind that they are no longer able to process transactions on ATM networks due to new regulations including the EMV liability shift and ADA guidelines.

The Case for Purchasing a New ATM Machine

As you can see, there are pros and cons for purchasing a new or refurbished ATM machine. If you are just starting out in the ATM business, there are just a couple of extra factors you need to consider until you gain a little more experience.

It really comes down to price vs. risk. The cheapest machine might not be the most reliable or expertly refurbished. There is less risk associated with purchasing a new machine, which might be best for you if it’s your first time, but it’s going to come at a higher cost. 

We’ll leave you with this: most ATM equipment is durable, reliable, and long-lasting. All you have to do is find the best ATM for your needs within your budget. Check out our ATM Buyers Guide for more information on ATM types and manufacturers to help you make a decision today!

Hyosung ATM vs. Genmega ATM: What’s the Best ATM Equipment?

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Hyosung ATM equipment and Genmega ATM equipment are two of the best options available. So it can be challenging to choose between the two when it comes to purchasing. 

To be quite honest, you really can’t go wrong with either. They made their way to the top by producing high-quality, reliable equipment. However, they aren’t identical brands, of course. So the decision really comes down to what you need and what you’re looking for in ATM equipment.

To help you distinguish these competitors, we’ll compare Hyosung ATM equipment and Genmega ATM equipment from company details to specific machine recommendations. By the end, you’ll know exactly which ATM machine is perfect for you. 

Hyosung ATM Equipment

Overview

South Korea’s Hyosung, Inc. prides themselves on their innovation, creativity, and technology in the production of next-generation ATMs. Their investment in research and development has made them the fastest growing manufacturer of ATMs in the world. 

Hyosung entered the US market in 1998 with the first small-footprint retail ATM. With US headquarters, distribution, and training centers located in Dallas, Texas, and research and development support teams at the Global Software Center in Dayton, Ohio, Hyosung is one of the United States’ highest valued organizations in the ATM industry.

Technology and Features

Hyosung stays ahead of its competitors by inventing and applying solutions. Hyosung owns all of its intellectual property which allows new technology to be brought to the market faster. For example, while its competitors are just piloting recycling ATMs, Hyosung has already deployed thousands of units.

Cash recycling ATMs allow bills that have been deposited to be withdrawn by future customers. This reduces the cost associated with cash replenishment in the ATM and improves efficiency and service availability. 

Hyosung is the leading ATM self-serving solutions marketplace for both financial services and retail industries. They are partners with 4 out of 5 of the top banks in the United States. With 10 key core banking applications certified, Hyosung is the leader in core integration.

Hyosung ATMs are able to offer an extended set of transactions, alternate authentication methods besides just card and PIN, customized bank rules, and no network fees. Bypassing the ATM network directly to the bank’s core banking application makes this possible.

And, of course, Hyosung’s complete line of recycling ATMs save banks money in cash replenishment and make them more efficient by increasing availability to customers. 

Hyosung technology makes them a leader in retail solutions as well. They produce small-footprint ATMs with applications that allow users to cash and deposit checks outside of a bank, add cash to Amazon Pay, and even buy or cash out cryptocurrency.

Although Hyosung ATM machine parts are more expensive than their competitors’ and not always readily available, their unique modular engineering design allows for quicker repair times and reduces the number of parts needed. Additionally, their parts are interchangeable among their machines which is a unique feature.

ATM Disinfection Enhancements

Sanitation and safety are growing concerns among consumers in light of COVID-19. Hyosung has met these concerns with their industry-leading disinfection protection for their ATMs. 

“[W]e began working as soon as the pandemic arrived to design a solution to maximize the safety of our ATMs,” says Hyosung America CEO Hee-Eun Ahn. 

As a result, as of Fall 2020, Hyosung made ATM disinfection kits available. These upgrade kits can be installed on any Hyosung ATMs and include a silver ion antimicrobial touchscreen, keypad, and function keys if applicable as well as violet blue LED sterilization lights. 

These parts are manufactured with antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of microbes like bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Applying these kits to ATMs at primary customer interaction points can help stop the spread of sickness, COVID-19 or otherwise. 

Additionally, Hyosung offers an antimicrobial coating service. This involves the application of an antimicrobial coating by a certified technician that protects ATM surfaces.

Hyosung ATM Machine Recommendation

Hyosung Halo 2

The Hyosung Halo II has a ‘Halo’ around the keypad which is great for dimly lit locations

Now that you know a little bit more about Hyosung as a company, let’s take a look at one of their newest and most popular machines: Nautilus Hyosung Halo II. 

The Hyosung Halo II is a brand-new, free standing ATM. It has a “futuristic design” that makes it great for modern spaces, but it’s really a great fit for every space from convenience stores to high-end retail stores.

Its “halo” of LED lighting surrounding the keypad draws users in and the 10” color LCD customer display screen doesn’t hurt either. It’s a great machine for indoor locations and areas where space is limited. It also utilizes new technology which positions it among the best ATMs for the retail market.

For example, its enhanced retail application enables customers to earn additional revenue from transactions like Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), donations, lottery, and surcharge segmentation. Plus, it supports cardless cash withdrawals via optional Near Field Communications (NFC) feature.

One of the biggest advantages of the Halo II is that it’s easy to operate whether you’re new or experienced with ATM machines. It has a simple operator menu program that makes it relatively easy to run and service the machine. Integration of background graphics is seamless as well. 

Last, it’s eco-friendly. Its parts are long-lasting and are interchangeable among other machines which lessens the impact on the environment. It also offers a paper-saving advantage. There’s a no receipt option and a QR-encoded digital receipt option.

Genmega ATM Equipment

Overview

Based in Dallas, Texas, Genmega has been providing ATM solutions since 2006. Although not as old as Hyosung, with 150,000 ATMs deployed worldwide they’re not far behind their competitor. Their models are also attractively designed with cutting-edge engineering and integration.

Taking customer ideas and equipment needs from concept to market, Genmega prides themselves on their willingness to explore options. There’s no doubt that their machines are designed with the user in mind. They also have a staff of engineers, developers, and technicians with decades of ATM experience available to help. 

Technology and Features

Genmega offers a GenCam which is a camera that not only records activity but also allows the customers to see themselves—and whoever might be behind them—on screen during their transactions.

They also provide a 3” printer upgrade from the standard 2”. This allows the receipt printer to present 3” graphics-capable printouts which is great for producing customized coupons and branded receipts.

ATM Disinfection Enhancements

Like Hyosung, Genmega has also taken user safety into consideration when it comes to sanitation. Vscan is a device created by Genmega that uses an Ultraviolet-C light to clean keypads that might collect bacteria and viruses.

Genmega’s goal was “instilling customer confidence” by assuring users that machines touched by hundreds of different hands are being sanitized, says Wes Dunn, the Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Genmega.

Here’s how it works: 

Insert your card, enter your PIN, conduct your transaction, and retrieve your card when you’re done. Once you retrieve your card, the Vscan passes over the keypad, or scans the keypad, shining the UV-C light that can kill up to 99% of bacteria and viruses. 

Disrupting the fundamental RNA and DNA, the UV-C light prevents bacteria and viruses from replicating according to Andrea Armani, professor of Chemical Engineering at the University of Southern California.

You can check out a video here as reported by ABC7 News in November of 2020.

The Vscan device is an available option for new ATM machines, and upgrade kits can be purchased for the G2500, Onyx, C6000, and Onyx W models.

Genmega ATM Machine Recommendation

Genmega G2500

The Genmega G2500 is a reliable free-standing ATM Machine with a sleek design.

Genmega’s latest and greatest ATM machine is the Genmega 2500. It is a high-quality, technically advanced merchant ATM. Its sleek design is optimal for both retail and off-premise locations. It’s a very popular model due to the many different options available.

Additional hardware configuration choices allow you to custom fit each machine to the needs of your customers or location. You’re also provided with flexibility due to the many upgrade options for machines you might already have. For example, the standard 8” screen can be upgraded to a 10.2” touchscreen!

The Genmega 2500 is another small footprint machine optimal for indoor and space-restricted locations. With all of the features expected of a late model, it’s a great replacement option for models like Triton 9600, Triton 9700, Triton 9100, or WRG Genesis.

If you’d like to add flexibility to your business, the Genmega 2500 is the way to go.

Choosing the ATM Equipment That’s Best for You

If you were hoping that we would tell you which manufacturer to choose every time, we’re sorry to disappoint. You really can’t go wrong with either a Hyosung ATM or Genmega ATM. They are two of the best, most popular manufacturers for a reason. Well, for a few reasons!

They both produce high-quality, attractive, technically advanced machines that are sure to exceed your expectations. When choosing between the two, it really comes down to which model best meets your needs and which upgrades you might be interested in.

Hyosung could cost more in repairs over time as their parts are more expensive and not always readily available, but their machines are durable and built to last. Hyosung is overall the more popular manufacturer, but that’s not because Genmega can’t compete. It’s simply because they have a larger model line and financial institution product lines. ATM Depot carries a full line of Hyosung ATM and Genmega ATM machines, so you can check out the details for other models not mentioned in this article as well as price comparisons. If you still need help making a decision or if you have questions contact us today!