German Banks Clarify ATM ‘Abort’ Button: Post-Withdrawal Press Is Unnecessary

Overview

• Deutsche Kreditwirtschaft confirms that an ATM session on bank-operated machines ends as soon as the card is removed, so pressing the red abort button afterward has no effect.
• German bank ATMs are designed to return the card before dispensing cash to ensure the cardholder is present and to terminate the session on card removal.
• The red abort button is recommended during a withdrawal if users feel observed, approached, or threatened because it immediately cancels the process and ejects the card.
• Procedures can differ at third‑party machines in public locations and at ATMs abroad, so users should exercise extra caution and learn local practices.
• Banks and the BKA note that ATM-related fraud remains a concern and advise basics such as shielding the PIN, checking for tampering, and securing card and cash immediately.