Governor's Administration Finds Outlaw ATMs

On Monday, the Patrick-Murray administration's Division of Banks announced the results of an investigation of non-bank owned automated teller machines (ATMs) which found more than 300 machines operating without approval, including nine in Norwood.

Non-bank machines are usually found in convenience stores or gas stations. According to state records, the number of authorized non-bank ATMs in Massachusetts has tripled in the last 10 years. There are currently about 5,600 non-bank ATMs authorized to operate in the state.

"Non-bank ATM operators must follow state regulations, register their machines, and make sure consumers are appropriately aware of the fees and ownership of a machine," said David J. Cotney, the Acting Commissioner of the Division of Banks in a press release. "Consumers must have a high level of trust and protection when using an ATM that is not at a bank, and following our registration rules and regulations provides that trust and protection."

The offending locations found in Norwood are at on Upland Rd., on Fulton St., Gas on Walpole St., on Walpole St., Mobil on Washington St., on Boston-Providence Highway, Charmed Exchange on Washington St., on Boston-Providence Highway and on Boston-Providence Highway.

Under Massachusetts law, non-bank ATM providers must apply for and receive approval by the Division of Banks for each ATM location. The application must include information on its ownership, security provisions, and proposed surcharges among other information.

Cease activity directives were issued on Dec. 8, to each location found to be operating an unauthorized ATM.

The investigation also found and inspected all 101 authorized machines and found violations at all 101 locations. The most common violations included failing to disclose the contact information of the owner and operator of the ATM and a 24-hour, toll-free contact phone number. The Division of Banks issued its findings to the operators of these ATMs detailing the specific corrective action required by Dec. 17.

"It is crucial that consumers are provided fee, contact data and other information in order to make informed decisions on which ATMs to use," Cotney said.

Consumers are advised to check the Division's listing of locations authorized to establish and operate non-bank ATMs. Anyone who has a complaint or concern with a non-bank ATM may contact the Division's Consumer Hotline at 1-800-495-BANK (2265), extension 501.