ATM Security Solutions: How Layered Security Can Help Protect Banks

4 minute read

Woman inserting card at ATM

ATMs are major components of modern banking, providing convenient access to cash and other banking services. However, they are also prime targets for theft and vandalism, especially during overnight hours.

Implementing Effective ATM Security Solutions

Implementing a layered security program with various strategies and technologies can help enhance ATM security, ensuring the safety of both the machines and the customers who use them.

Hardware Solutions

Banks should implement robust physical security measures to help safeguard ATMs against theft and vandalism. These solutions can focus on fortifying the ATM structure and preventing unauthorized access:

ATM Security Gate: Specially designed to protect ATMs, these gates feature options for single or double bars, and hidden locks to prevent drilling.
Enclosures and Surrounds: These structures completely enclose the ATM, providing an additional layer of security.
Anchoring Technology: Bolts specifically designed to absorb and redirect attacking forces can prevent brute force impacts.
Top Hatch Keys: Personalized sets of keys can eliminate the risk of duplication, enhancing security.

Lighting Solutions

Banks should enhance visibility around ATMs to deter criminal activity. Sufficient lighting can reduce the likelihood of theft and vandalism. Two types of lighting should be considered:

Basic Lighting: At a minimum, place lights at all corners of the building adjacent to the ATM. Use a brightness of at least 700 lumens.
Smart Lighting: Install a “spotlight” over the ATM that activates when motion or suspicious activity is detected.

Signage Solutions

Utilize strategic signage to deter potential criminals by conveying the presence of security measures and the risks associated with tampering with ATMs. Consider the following when reviewing signage:

Surveillance Signage: Indicate that the ATM is being live monitored 24/7 to deter potential criminals.
Prosecution Warning: Emphasize the heightened risk of capture and prosecution for tampering with the ATM.
Value Indication: Indicate that the machine holds minimal cash to reduce the incentive for theft.
Alarm and Ink Warning: Convey the presence of audible alarms or indelible security ink that activates upon tampering.

Third-Party and Vendor Solutions

Collaborate with local businesses and security vendors to enhance ATM security. These collaborations can provide additional layers of protection through natural surveillance and professional security services. Consider the following approach:

Relocation Agreements: Establish agreements with local businesses to relocate ATMs to areas where employees and customers serve as a natural deterrent, such as 24/7 pharmacies. This can also include posting security guards.

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)

Design and manage the physical environment to deter crime. CPTED principles focus on creating spaces that naturally discourage criminal behavior. Consider the following principles:

Natural Surveillance: Maximize visibility by placing physical features, activities, and people to increase the risk of perpetrators being observed.
Natural Access Control: Design hallways, sidewalks, entrances and landscaping to strategically guide people through a space.
Territorial Reinforcement: Use physical attributes to separate public space from private space and express ownership, such as fencing, paving treatments, signage, and landscaping.
Maintenance: Utilize effective facility and social management to eliminate the “broken window” factor that attracts perpetrators.

Technological Solutions

Leverage advanced technology to monitor and protect ATMs. These solutions provide real-time surveillance, alerts and deterrents to enhance security. Consider the following technologies:

Tattletale: A portable alarm system providing 24/7 monitoring that dispatches authorities when triggered, including tamper and movement sensors.
March Networks: Video monitoring systems that employ AI with real-time notifications and remote surveillance, including an Alert Communication Tool (ACT) that delivers real-time notifications of alarms/actions to third-party devices.
Intelligent Banknote Neutralization System: Indelible security ink that renders cash useless when activated, similar to systems used in clothing stores.

Legislative Solutions

Banking and insurance professionals can advocate for laws and policies to enhance ATM security and deter theft by contacting their representatives. Legislative measures can provide a legal framework to support and enforce security practices. Consider the following legislative measures:

Safe Access to Cash Act: A bill introduced in 2023 aimed at making ATM theft a federal offense.
Restrictive Pursuit Policies: Addressing laws in states like California, Massachusetts, Oregon and Washington that limit law enforcement’s ability to pursue criminals in vehicles.