Banking institution, Volksbank, to implement obstacles for potential bombers
Volksbank Bolsters ATM Security, Sparking Industry Imitation
In a bid to fortify ATM security, the Volksbank in Bergisch Land has implemented a robust security system across 40 ATMs at 20 locations. This innovative move has reportedly garnered attention from other banks, who are now reportedly exploring the Volksbank's measures.
The new system, which cost around half a million euros to implement, includes mechanically secured entrance doors and roller shutters installed in front of ATMs. Customers have not been able to withdraw money in the branch foyers between 23:00 and 6:00 for some time now, as a precautionary measure.
The roller shutters close immediately after closing, making direct access to the ATMs more challenging. An acoustic and optical warning system has been installed to alert customers in the foyer area before closing. Remaining in the foyer after the warning triggers an alarm for the police and security services.
Trying to tamper with the closed door after 23:00 triggers a loud alarm. A new alarm system has been installed that immediately alerts security services and the police in case of break-in attempts. The acoustic and optical warning system, along with the alarm, is intended to make ATM tampering more difficult.
The Volksbank distances itself from locking systems that become effective after the blast. The goal of the new security system is to prevent a blast by making it hard for perpetrators. This was evident in the Ronsdorf incident last year, where perpetrators only needed 20 seconds to carry out the blast on an ATM in the Volksbank branch in Wuppertal-Ronsdorf, causing half a million euros in damage and requiring complete renovation.
The goal of the new security system is to deter perpetrators by using the alarm system to buy time before a potential blast. The Volksbank's board member, Andreas Otto, stated that the goal is to keep perpetrators away from the ATMs for as long as possible. The investment in security measures is believed to have already inspired imitators among other banks.
However, the news reports do not provide specific information on which banks, aside from the Volksbank im Bergisch Land, have already enhanced the security of their ATMs. The new security system is designed to buy time, as in the Ronsdorf incident, where the hope is that the additional time will make it more difficult for perpetrators to carry out their attacks.
