"Bank Jugging," the Latest Threat to Bank Security
Everyday, routine activities – like going to the ATM or getting gas – can become crime scenes creating major financial headaches and potential identity theft for you and your customers.
There is a popular new crime trend called “bank jugging”. Criminals stake out financial institutions or ATM locations and look for distracted customers with their heads in their phones while withdrawing money. That “situationally unaware” person is now a prime target.
The criminals follow the customer to another location and wait for them to exit their vehicle. The suspect pulls up and breaks into the vehicle to steal money and other valuables.
Sometimes, a friendly stranger may approach a customer at an ATM with a seemingly helpful suggestion to use their tap card on a machine that appears to be out of order. However, in reality, the criminal has blocked the ATM slot with glue or cardboard. If your customer takes their advice, gets cash, and leaves without ending the transaction properly, the criminal withdraws the maximum amount of money possible and casually walks away.
It's important to update your bank’s security through technology and education. Make your customers aware that seemingly innocent encounters can quickly become a nightmare. Criminals have become increasingly creative in preying on unsuspecting victims, and their tactics can be incredibly convincing. We need to warn our patrons to be cautious of strangers who approach them with unsolicited advice or compliments, as this may be a tactic to distract them.
How can financial institutions protect their customers from these criminals?
To enhance security, consider several important measures, including conducting a thorough analysis of key areas to ensure the highest quality and protection levels are in place.
Lighting of Parking Areas and ATMs
Suspicious Activity Notification
Object Detection
Loitering Detection
Heat Mapping
License Plate Recognition
Tow and Hook Alert/Analytics
Implementing advanced surveillance systems includes high-resolution cameras, motion detectors, and other technologies that can detect and record suspicious activity in and around the branch. Surveillance anomalies can be automated to alert via phone or monitored by remote or onsite security personnel, who can then take appropriate action to prevent a crime from occurring.
FIs should also consider educating their customers about the risks associated with “bank jugging” while also providing useful tips for staying safe. This proactive approach could help customers avoid this type of crime and promote greater trust and security in the banking industry.
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Tips include:
Educate customers about the new trend of “bank jugging”
Remind customers to be situationally aware when using bank services and wherever they are
Provide tailored education and support for elderly and vulnerable individuals
Encourage customers to report suspicious activity to bank personnel or law enforcement (provide a clear process to follow)
Advise customers to vary their withdrawal patterns.
In addition to educating customers, FIs can work with law enforcement and community organizations to raise awareness about bank jugging and other financial crimes. Help protect your customers further by deploying top-of-the-line security equipment and software.
For more information on protecting the lives and assets of your customers, go to: