IS YOUR FINANCIAL INSTUTION SECURE

(The old time bank robber, John Dillinger was once ask, ” Mr. Dillinger, why do you rob banks?” Dillinger replied “Because that’s where the money is.” So. how secure is your financial facility’s  security. In today’s strapped economy, with more and more individuals losing their jobs, homes and bank accounts, crime perpetrated against financial instructions is on the rise.  And, bank employment continues to be an ever increasing profession risk.)

The Bank Protection Act (BPA), established in 1968 and amended in 1991, was established to discourage bank robberies, burglaries and larcenies and to assist in the  identification and prosecution of persons who commit such acts. The Board of Directors is responsible for compliance with the BPA and is responsible for adopting a written security program. The bank is also required to have a designated security officer. The problem with the BPA is that it only establishes minimum security measures. Banks should  use the BPA Standards to assist them in developing a more precise Security Program.

What makes  the financial instructions so inviting? Most financial facilities  error on the side of Customer Relations, rather than Security. However,  a few simple security provisions,   can  increase both the  public relations and provide better security.

There are many subtle structural and procedural provision, that will tend to reduce the criminal activity, without being offensive to the customer. Some such procedures  are discussed below. The subjects mentioned are not all inclusive of facility security but hopefully will prompt some ideas to increase your continued research and prevention.

The Tellers are very important, as they are in the forefront, with respect to good customer relations and crime prevention. So, take good care of them.

Recently, I walked into my local bank facility and noticed that the Tellers all had their full names displayed on the counter name plates. This is a security no-no. Tellers, as well as all banking  employees, should  only reveal their first names and never give their full names, for obvious reasons. 

HERE ARE SOME COVERT SECURITY MEASURES TO CONSIDER

The Teller Line should be, equipped with a full length exit door, with an automatic closer, a wide angle peep lens and a lock requiring an outside key and a continuous parapet counter, to deter a would be robber from jumping the counter and accosting the tellers.

Teller Cash Policies should be established, such as top drawer cash limits and keeping the bottom reserve door locker could conceivably reduce a robbery cash loss. Having bait money and dye packs, also tend to decrease robbery loss.

The Teller should be comfortable in knowing that pulling the bait money trap or pushing the alarm button, will set off an unnoticeable silent alarm. And she or he need do nothing to set off the TV Cameras as they run continuously

A good comprehensive Open and Closing procedure would have a propensity to deter a would be “Morning Glory” or “After Hours” robbery. Robberies outside of banking hours, especially during opening and closing, cause the larger losses.

A Cash Chest should be considered, which is equipped with a time delay lock, and located in a room, with a closed and locked day gate, which is separated from the safe deposit boxes, tends to deter a run in type robber. Especially when a sign is posted, advertising the time day.

Continuous Employee Training is essential to a good security program,  and  should be held at intervals no longer than six months. Portions of the Security Policy should randomly be discussed.

In this day-of-age, Executive Profile Forms are essential  to enhance the safety of employees, during  normal daily activity. The forms should be required for upper level management and any other employees, including tellers, deemed  vulnerable. The forms should remain confidential and be keep in a locked file, which is only accessible by the Security Officer. The forms should be updated annually.

Records are necessary, for audit compliance, as well as a schedule reminder and training reminder. Records should include alarm and camera testing, crime incidents, and employee training. The records should be housed in a secure file, located in the main Security Office.

In a diversified environment, such as a financial facility, it becomes necessary to have one or more employees in the capacity of Bank Investigator, Credit Card Investigator, or in a similar security position. These employees are labeled Quasi-Police, and should  be authorized to carry firearms. They should also be required to work closely, with the law enforcement authorities,  at all levels of crime affecting the financial establishment. 

In conclusion, it is paramount in this competitive age, that you protect your customers, employees and assets, by creating an attitude of preparedness and concern. Only such attitude will ensure the safety of employees and customers alike.

Please note: this article was designed to give a reduced synopsis of an ideal financial  security plan. To develop a comprehensive  Security Plan or schedule a Financial Security Seminar, contact Charles Robey at email address ccrobey@charter.net.