Abstract: In an autoteller, where a card is inserted into a slot to be read by the autoteller, and remains visible at all times by means of an indentation in the slot whereby the card can also be grasped, a cam operated bale arm assembly prevents the card from being removed from the slot by interposing the tips of bale arm behind the fascia of the autoteller between the card and the slot. A bale arm clamp is provided for holding the bale arm assembly closed for the card to be pushed into a retention bin transversely to its direction of insertion into the autoteller by means of a drive wheel driven card ejection pin in the event of the autoteller desiring to retain the card. The bale arm assembly performs a dual action, both preventing the removal of the card and drawing the card into a predetermined position prior to the card being read. The clamp maintains the bale arm assembly in a removal-preventing position even although the cam operating mechanism is de-activated.