3 Ways to Prevent ATM Smash-and-Grab Attacks
BFC Enterprises • November 4, 2024

Off-premise ATMs are often targets for thieves who use stolen trucks or construction equipment to break into buildings and steal the cash inside. While you can't totally stop someone who's determined to go to that extreme to steal an ATM, there are several good ways to make thieves think twice before trying.


Here are three tried and true methods to discourage ATM thieves from targeting ATMs:

Make the ATM Less Tempting
One of the best ways to stop ATM theft is to make criminals wonder if it's worth the trouble. After all, if they think they won't get much money, they might pick an easier target instead.

Here's a simple trick that works well: Put decals on the ATM that say you remove all the money at night. Even if you don't always do this, it makes criminals unsure about how much cash they might get. When they're thinking about all the work it takes to break into a store, this doubt might be enough to make them give up.

Let Everyone See They are Being Watching
Criminals know cameras make it more likely they’ll get caught. When thieves think there’s a good chance they’ll end up in jail, they’re less likely to try anything.

To make this work well:
  • Put up good security cameras that can see the ATM and the area around it
  • Make sure everyone can see your cameras
  • Put up signs that tell people they're being recorded
  • Use multiple cameras pointing different ways so nothing is missed
The secret here isn't just having cameras - it's making sure potential thieves can easily spot them. When criminals know they're being watched from every angle, they'll probably look for an easier target.

Make the ATM Harder to Steal
Physical barriers and security devices are a great way to protect the ATM. 

Here are some proven ways:
  • Strong Posts Out Front. Put strong metal or concrete posts (called bollards) in front of the location. These posts can stop a truck or car from crashing through the front door.
  • Bolt It Down. Attach the ATM firmly to the floor with strong bolts. This makes it much harder for thieves to pull it out, even with a truck. The longer it takes to steal something, the more likely thieves are to give up.
  • Add Protection. Put steel panels around the ATM like armor. This makes it heavier and harder to break into. When thieves see how tough the ATM looks, they might decide it's not worth the effort.
  • Special Ink Protection. There are companies that now make special ink systems for ATM vaults. If someone tries to steal the ATM or blow it up, the system sprays ink all over the money. This ruins the cash for the thieves, but the money can be replaced later.

Get Help from Experts
While these safety measures work well, it's important to set them up the right way. Companies that work with ATMs can help you choose the best security for your location. These experts know all about ATM security and how thieves try to steal from them, so they can help devising the best plan to protect the ATM and the money inside.

By making ATMs less tempting, showing thieves they're being watched, and adding physical protection, can make reduce the chances of a smash and grab ATM heist. While no security is perfect, these steps work together to make thieves look elsewhere for an easier target.

Looking for a reliable ATM partner that takes security seriously? Contact BFC Enterprises today!

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