Security Revolution: VR Bank tests technologies against ATMSPRENGER!

Die VR Bank Fulda testet innovative Sicherheitsmaßnahmen gegen Geldautomatensprengungen in Hessen. Maßnahmen und Erfolge im Fokus.
VR Bank Fulda tests innovative security measures against ATM blasts in Hesse. Measures and successes in focus. (Symbolbild/ANAG)

Security Revolution: VR Bank tests technologies against ATMSPRENGER!

VR Bank Fulda tested new security measures on February 26, 2025 to take action against the increasing ATMs. In a simulated attack, Patrick Jacobi, an employee of VR Bank, introduced the innovative protection techniques in Hilders. Jacobi was equipped with black clothing, a storm hood, safety glasses and hearing protection. During the test, several security mechanisms were activated, including a striking siren, dense fog and flash of light that should make the orientation of the perpetrators difficult. [ Tageschau.de ]

After the beginning of the test, Jacobi broke off the simulated attack because he lost his orientation due to the intensive security measures. Patrick Harnier, the head of the service bank, then explained that the test would be considered successful. The aim is to make raids on ATMs more difficult and less attractive. The measures in detail are impressive: the signal tone has the volume of a chainsaw, which makes it difficult to communicate the perpetrators. In addition, the flash light causes a discomfort and has a 160-time lighting effect compared to a normal light bulb. [ Tageschau.de ]

The number of ATMs in Hesse has decreased considerably. The number was still 61 in 2023, so it was only 24 in 2024. While 4.6 million euros were captured in 2023, the prey was only 740,000 euros in 2024. At the same time, the property damage from over 10.5 million euros in 2023 fell to 4.2 million euros the following year. So far there was only an incident in 2025, with the property damage being 12,000 euros without being captured. [ hessenschau.de ]

additional security measures and challenges

Another example of security initiatives is the Sparkasse Bad Hersfeld-Rotenburg, which presents a new security concept in Bebra. Bank foyers with ATMs are closed from 0 a.m. to 5 a.m. Here, too, video surveillance and speakers are used to warn potential intruders. In addition, a destruction system with two nozzles is installed to confuse the perpetrators. The bank invests a total of over 200,000 euros in security measures. Banks in Hesse have invested almost 10 million euros in prevention over the past few years.

The situation is serious. Germany lists weekly blasting of ATMs, and more than 70 suspects have been determined since 2019, especially in Hesse and over 20 perpetrators were legally convicted. A large part of the population behind these raids comes from the Netherlands and often belongs to internationally organized crime groups. Measures such as the establishment of the "Alliance ATMS" in May 2022, which now comprises 56 banks, should help to assess and improve the security situation.

Details
Quellen