Protecting ATMs from Smash-and-Grab Attacks

Smash-and-grab attacks have become a significant threat to retail ATM owners and operators across the country. These bold criminals often use vehicles to ram through storefronts, causing extensive damage while attempting to steal the entire ATM or break into it on-site.

Industry data shows these physical attacks are occurring at an alarming rate, comprising over 28% of all ATM attacks in the first quarter of 2025 and over 45% of attacks in the fourth quarter last year, according to the ATM Industry Association’s quarterly crime report. And, when a physical ATM attack occurs, retailers often bear the costs of both stolen cash and property damage.

Understanding the Smash-and-Grab Threat

The appeal of smash-and-grab attacks for criminals is their speed and simplicity. Unlike digital attacks that require technical knowledge, physical attacks need minimal planning and can be executed quickly. Most retail locations are vulnerable, particularly:

• Convenience stores with street-facing ATMs
• Locations with easy vehicle access to storefronts
• Businesses in areas with limited police response times
• ATMs positioned near windows or main entrances

To deter criminals from having easy access to your ATM and seeing your business as an easy target, NationaLink has put together some helpful strategies to prevent smash-and-grab attacks.

Effective Protection Strategies

Physical security is your first line of defense against smash-and-grab attempts. Adding protective measures creates multiple layers that can significantly slow down or completely prevent attacks:

1. Install Protective Bollards

• Position sturdy protective posts (bollards) in front of vulnerable store areas
• Ensure bollards are properly engineered to withstand vehicle impacts
• Consider decorative options that enhance appearance or even advertise products while providing protection

2. Secure the ATM Properly

• Anchor the ATM to the floor with industrial-grade bolts
• Even if criminals breach your storefront, a properly secured ATM takes considerable time to remove
• The longer criminals must remain on-site, the greater their risk of being caught

3. Consider Protective Armor

• Add steel reinforcement panels around vulnerable ATMs located near windows or glass doors
• Protective armor increases the machine’s weight making transportation more difficult
• In addition to physical protection, armored protection creates a visual deterrent

Deploy Intelligent Security Technology

Modern security technology creates powerful deterrents for potential thieves:

1. Comprehensive Video Surveillance

• Install high-quality cameras with clear views of both the ATM and surrounding areas
• Position multiple cameras at different angles to eliminate blind spots
• Ensure footage is recorded and easily retrievable
• Make cameras highly visible to increase the perceived risk

2. Advanced Protection Systems

• Consider dye-pack systems that mark bills during theft attempts
• These systems detect unusual movement and release special dye
• Marked bills are unusable to criminals but can be turned into the Federal Reserve
• Dye-pack technology serves as both a deterrent and recovery mechanism

3. Warning Signage

• Post visible security notices indicating 24/7 surveillance
• Display decals stating that money is removed nightly
• Create uncertainty about the potential reward
• Make criminals question whether the effort and risk are worthwhile

Reduce Potential Rewards

Making criminals question the payoff is a powerful psychological deterrent:

1. Cash Management Practices

• Limit the amount of cash stored in accessible ATMs
• Consider lower cash limits for high-risk locations
• Create doubt about the amount available
• Make your ATM appear less profitable than alternatives

2. Visible Cash Reduction Messaging

• Display notices about regular cash removal
• Even if full removal isn’t practical, creating doubt deters criminals
• When weighing considerable effort against uncertain rewards, many thieves will move on

Partner with ATM Security Experts

While these security measures are proven effective, implementing them correctly requires expertise. A professional ATM partner can:

• Evaluate your specific location vulnerabilities
• Recommend appropriate security combinations
• Stay current on emerging criminal tactics
• Implement the latest protection technologies
• Provide ongoing monitoring and maintenance

By combining physical barriers, enhanced surveillance, and reward-reduction strategies, retailers can significantly decrease their vulnerability to smash-and-grab attacks. While no security system is completely impenetrable, these layered protections make your ATM a less attractive target for criminals.

Remember that ATM security is an ongoing process requiring regular assessment and updates as criminal tactics evolve. Working with experienced ATM security professionals ensures your protection strategies remain effective against both current and emerging threats.

Contact NationalLink today to evaluate your location’s security needs and implement a comprehensive protection plan.