3 Ways to Improve Security at Your ATM
BFC Enterprises • July 2, 2022

3 Ways to Improve Security at Your ATM

In today’s world of growing cybercrime, it’s almost shocking to see that physical financial crimes aren’t slowing down. But not every bad actor is digitally savvy and capable of using a computer to bolster their misdeeds. And for these more physically minded criminals, the ATM is a prime target.


Between 2019 and 2020, ATM damages and thefts increased by 220%. The incidents have become such an issue that the states of Missouri and Kansas have both increased penalties for ATM theft in an attempt to address the problem.


Incidents where vehicles smash through a building and take off with an entire ATM unit have risen by 53%. But it is not just smash and grabs increasing in frequency. More and more incidents include implementing explosives to break into ATM safes - risking fire, gas and projectile damage to the surrounding retail or banking establishment.


Fortunately, there are ways to help deter bad actors. Here are three ways to help keep ATMs safe.


Create Additional Barriers

Using a vehicle to destroy property for the purpose of gaining access to an ATM or the cash within is a preferred method of many criminals. Called “smash-and-grabs,” the operation relies on the ability for a vehicle to not only eliminate windows and ATM surrounds, but also create enough damage to the machine to make access easier.

 

Retail locations can help reduce access by installing bollard systems. Placed around a storefront, these concrete posts create a physical wall that is easy for consumers to navigate but effectively halt vehicles before they can generate damage to the building. Installed around stand-alone financial institution ATMs, they perform a similar service by protecting the ATM from being accosted by a car, truck or construction equipment.


Another viable option for the safety of stand-alone machines is the implementation of  bolts or anchors. These heavy-duty pieces of hardware securely lock the machine into place, making it more difficult to physically remove the ATM.


Location, Location, Location

One of the simplest ways to protect an ATM is to place it in an area that makes it more difficult to attack. Part of this strategy is keeping the machine away from structural vulnerabilities. Windows, vestibules and exits all provide opportunities for access to the machine.


ATMs at convenience stores may find it safer to place machines near the register, close to the refrigeration units or near soda or coffee machines. Grocery store and pharmacy locations may find it prudent to place ATMs near the customer service or pharmacy counter. Any footprint that puts the machine within employee line-of-site and keeps it away from outside access points is ideal when addressing safety concerns.


Reduce the Rewards

Another option to help prevent ATM theft is to manage cash availability within the machine. Criminals who attack ATMs usually keep an eye on their target location ahead of time and their surveillance will give them an idea of the potential “take” to be gained from an attack on a specific machine. Lowering the amount of cash available makes the return on effort minimal.


While criminals are always looking for new ways to make a quick buck, ATMs are going to be a target. Fortunately, there are ways to manage the risks and improve security for these popular machines.


For the most secure ATMs, you can count on BFC Enterprises. Give us a call 314.961.9000 or contact us today!

Amusement Games: Turn fun into profit
By BFC Enterprises November 4, 2025
Discover how one Illinois bowling alley owner boosted revenue and customer time-on-site with hassle-free amusement game solutions from BFC Enterprises.
By BFC Enterprises October 27, 2025
That's exactly why partnering with BFC Enterprises to select and manage your amusement games is a smart move. You get expertly matched equipment that maximizes fun, keeps customers engaged, and hits your revenue goals, without any of the guesswork or hassle. Game Selection Backed by Real Experience BFC Enterprises has spent decades placing games in all kinds of business environments. We've seen what works in shopping centers versus family restaurants. We know which games draw teenagers at youth sports facilities and which ones keep adults entertained at bars while they wait for their food. When we evaluate your location, we're looking at your customer base, your foot traffic patterns, and your available space. We're thinking about who's walking through your doors, how long they typically stay, and what kind of entertainment matches their vibe. Then we match game styles to those factors for optimal performance. You shouldn't have to figure this out through expensive trial and error. We already know what works. Maximize Play and Profit Here's a truth every business owner should know: not all amusement games perform equally in every location. Some games get tons of attention and consistent play. Others just take up space. We use data and hands-on experience to choose games that will actually get played. We place the ones that grab attention, generate consistent activity, and deliver the highest revenue return. This means more passive income for you without spending months testing different machines to see what sticks. Think of it this way: we're not just dropping random equipment in your location and hoping for the best. We're strategically placing proven performers that match your specific environment. That's the difference between a few extra bucks a month and a meaningful revenue stream. Regular Rotation Without the Hassle Even the best games can get stale after a while. That's why we don't just set it and forget it. BFC Enterprises actively monitors game performance at your location. When we notice engagement dropping or when there's an opportunity to refresh things, we rotate games to keep your customers interested and having fun. We also select seasonal prizes that keep people playing longer and coming back to see what's new. The best part? You don’t have to track any of this yourself. We handle the strategy, the swaps, and the prize selection. Your customers stay entertained, and you keep earning, all without lifting a finger. Full-Service Support You Can Count On When you partner with BFC Enterprises , you're not just getting equipment delivered and left behind. You're getting complete, ongoing support. We handle compatibility issues, maintenance, prize stocking, and repairs. If something breaks, you're not scrambling to fix it or figure out who to call. Our team takes care of everything while you focus on what you do best – serving your customers and running your business. This is truly passive income. No headaches, no technical problems to solve, no wondering if you picked the right equipment. Just steady earnings from games that work. The Bottom Line Adding amusement games to your location is a smart way to increase customer engagement, extend dwell time, and create an additional revenue stream. But only if you choose the right games and manage them properly. When you partner with BFC Enterprises, you get the best-performing, highest-return amusement setup – customized specifically to your business and your customers – without any of the work. We bring the expertise, the equipment, and the ongoing support. You bring the space and the customers. Together, we create more fun, more engagement, and more profit. Ready to get started? Contact BFC Enterprises today and let's build the perfect amusement game setup for your location. 📞 (314) 961-9000 🌐 bfcenterprises.com/contact