ATMs Blown Up: Neuchâtel KB Makes Life More Difficult for Gangs

ATMs Blown Up: Neuchâtel KB Makes Life More Difficult for Gangs

The Neuchâtel Cantonal Bank was the victim of an ATM blast last May. The locations, which are often in small towns, are the preferred targets of criminal gangs.

The Banque Cantonale Neuchâteloise (BCN) conducted a thorough security check on its entire ATM network and reinstated operations after implementing several measures.

The Neuchâtel-based bank announced on Friday that its security improvements cost «several hundred thousand francs». ATMs near the French border were particularly targeted by criminal gangs. As a precaution, BCN temporarily took some machines out of operation at affected locations.

30 Attacks Throughout Switzerland

In particular, the explosives attack on a vending machine in La Brévine in May caused a stir. As a result, there have been around 30 attacks on ATMs throughout Switzerland this year.

Factors such as the safety of residents, users and employees, the distance to the nearest ATM as well as the surroundings and access to each ATM were taken into account during the review.

Where possible, vending machines have been relocated indoors. Some machines are now secured with protective metal curtains and some have been completely dismantled. In addition, access is being restricted at several locations.

Overall, the measures taken have greatly reduced the level of risk, the report says.