by Tony Mercer, Director of Operations
ATM USA, Powered by PAI
ATM crime has become an alarming concern for retailers. ATM-related attacks have skyrocketed, rising over 600% since 2019, according to industry associations ATM Industry Association and the National ATM Council.
Current ATM operator reported data suggests an average of 12+ physical attacks occur monthly across the US, making ATM security a critical priority for convenience stores and brick-and-mortar retailers.
Understanding the ATM Crime Landscape
The sharp increase in ATM attacks presents a significant threat to businesses. Criminals have become increasingly bold and sophisticated in their methods, targeting ATMs as lucrative opportunities for quick financial gain. As a retailer, understanding and implementing robust security measures is no longer optional, it's essential.
Using best practices can help deter criminals - keeping your location and protecting your business’s financial assets - and in some cases recover the money and the machine if an attack occurs.
Curbing Physical Break-Ins
Protecting your ATM begins with reinforcing vulnerable areas by creating physical barriers that make criminal access difficult. Consider these strategic improvements:
Window and Vestibule Reinforcement. Investing in riot-proof glass is an attractive alternative to unsightly steel bars. It helps to maintain a welcoming storefront appearance while providing superior protection. If riot-proof glass is out of reach, a less expensive option includes applying reinforced plexiglass on interior and exterior window surfaces.
Perimeter Protection. Installing concrete bollards or protective poles in front of the most vulnerable store areas can effectively deter vehicular smash-and-grab attempts, creating a physical barrier that prevents ram-raid style attacks.
Machine Anchoring. It’s vital that the ATM is securely bolted to the floor. While not guaranteed prevention, this tactic complicate machine removal attempts by increasing the time criminals spend on-site attempting to the remove the ATM and raises the likelihood of law enforcement intervention.
Increasing the Perceived Risk of Attack
Criminals are opportunistic. By increasing their perceived risk of capture with surveillance tools, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of an attack.
Having comprehensive video surveillance in the store is vital. Not only will it protect your ATM, but it can also deter shoplifters. We recommend cameras be strategically placed around and directly facing the ATM. Another inexpensive tactic is to add decals to the ATM warning that users are being recorded. This creates an environment where ATM users feel safe and can deter bad actors.
Protecting Your Assets During Potential Theft
Even if an attack occurs, modern technology offers multiple protective strategies that can help to catch criminals and recover the money and ATM.
Dye Packs release permanent dye when the ATM is violently jostled or otherwise compromised, rendering the stolen money unusable. Dyed bills can be recovered and turned into local Federal Reserve Bank facilities for reimbursement.
Advanced Tracking Solutions such as GPS and motion detection systems can provide real-time notifications to law enforcement. Early alerts from these systems can reduce response times and even increase the chances of catching the criminals.
Protecting your ATM requires a multi-layered approach combining physical barriers, surveillance, and advanced tracking technologies. By making your ATM a challenging target, you significantly reduce the likelihood of criminal attacks and protect your business’s financial assets.
ATM operators like ATM USA, a PAI company, can help you evaluate your risks and recommend what steps your particular location(s) should take to protect your ATMs. Contact us today to speak to an ATM expert about what strategies and programs could help you improve your ATM and store safety.
Looking for an ATM partner that takes security seriously?
Brandon Tant, Retail Account Manager
btant@atmusa.com | 919-535-0090 | Schedule a Meeting
Darren Smith, Vice President, ATM Management
darren@atmusa.com • 919-534-3232 • Schedule a Meeting
Craig Helmers, Vice President, ATM Management
craig@atmusa.com | 919-534-3233 | Schedule a Meeting
Learn more by how to protect your ATM by reading our ATM Security Best Practices
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