ATM attacks are constantly evolving, which makes keeping your ATMs safe a serious challenge. Terminal attacks, physical attacks and system (hardware and software) attacks are so varied. How can you create a safer ATM security plan to thwart would-be attackers?
- Change up your routine. You probably have a schedule for branch staff and technicians to physically check on ATMs. Don’t stop doing that but add 2-3 random checks in per month. Randomizing physical security procedures for ATMs may confuse and deter would-be attackers. It may also help to find issues more quickly, if they exist, rather than leaving them until the next scheduled check.
- Show enclosures the same respect. Check enclosure security as diligently as you do the actual ATMs. Test doors, locks and cameras on a schedule and at random intervals. If they are weak, have them replaced or upgraded. (For more information on upgrading your enclosures, click here.)
- Reward customers for reporting. Your ATM’s daily users can be one of your best lines of defense against tampering at the terminal. Encourage them to report any issues with the ATM right away, including suspicious characters loitering nearby. Consider offering a small reward like a hat, key chain or other swag for their support. Think of it like a neighborhood watch program, but for your ATMs and enclosures.
- Keep on patchin’. Ensure your machines are current with the latest software updates and security patches. We highly recommend remote management services that can push updates whenever then become available. (For more information on QSI’s Remote Management Console – RMC, click here.)
- Use layers to your advantage. The best protection against ATM attacks of all kinds including terminal tampering (skimming, shimming and card trapping), physical attacks and system attacks is a multi-layer security protocol. Your first layer is an up-to-date and virus-protected software and hardware system. Your second layer is your physical security system, checking machines and locks regularly and randomly. Your third layer could be your customers letting you know if anything looks suspicious. The key is to design a unique multi-layer system of digital, physical, user-based or other systems to offer several layers of defense against ATM attacks.