Bank robbery has long been a problem for financial institutions, posing a threat to both employees and customers.
If you’re wondering how common bank robberies are, the quick answer is that they happen more frequently than you might think.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the statistics surrounding bank robberies and explore what measures banks can take to protect themselves and their customers.
The Prevalence of Bank Robberies
Bank robberies have been a common occurrence for decades. Despite the advancement in security measures, robbers are still finding ways to break into banks and steal money. In this article, we will discuss the prevalence of bank robberies and provide statistics and trends related to this issue.
Statistics on Bank Robberies
According to the FBI, there were 3,555 reported bank robberies in the United States in 2019. This number has decreased since 2018, where there were a reported 3,924 bank robberies. This decrease could be attributed to the increased use of surveillance cameras, improved security measures, and the advancements in law enforcement technology.
Did you know? In 2019, the average amount stolen during a bank robbery was $7,500.
While the number of bank robberies has decreased over the years, the risk and danger associated with these crimes remain high. Bank robbers often carry weapons and pose a threat to the safety of the employees and customers present during the robbery.
Trends in Bank Robberies
The majority of bank robberies occur on Fridays and during the months of June and July. This trend could be attributed to the increased number of people withdrawing money and traveling during the summer months.
Did you know? The state with the highest number of bank robberies in 2019 was California with a total of 554 reported incidents.
- Another trend in bank robberies is the use of disguises. In 2019, 34% of bank robbers wore some sort of disguise, such as a hat or sunglasses, to conceal their identity.
- Bank robbers also tend to target specific types of banks. According to the FBI, the most common type of bank targeted by robbers are those located in commercial areas.
Sources: https://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/bank-crime-statistics-2019-released-052620
The Impact of Bank Robberies
Bank robberies have a significant impact not just on the financial loss for banks, but also on the physical and emotional wellbeing of employees and customers, as well as the reputational damage for the banks.
Physical and Emotional Effects on Employees and Customers
Bank robberies are often violent crimes that can result in physical injuries to employees and customers. Even if no one is physically harmed, the experience of being robbed can be traumatic and cause emotional distress for those involved. Employees and customers may experience anxiety, fear, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a bank robbery.
Banks can help mitigate the impact of bank robberies on their employees and customers by providing counseling services and support for those affected.
Financial Losses for Banks
Bank robberies can result in significant financial losses for banks. In addition to the stolen cash, banks may also incur costs related to property damage, security upgrades, and legal fees. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reports that in 2019, there were 3,061 reported bank robberies in the United States, resulting in losses of over $15 million.
With advances in technology, banks are investing in security measures such as surveillance cameras, alarms, and security personnel to deter robberies and minimize losses.
Reputational Damage for Banks
Bank robberies can also result in reputational damage for banks. Customers may lose trust in a bank that has been robbed, and the negative publicity can damage the bank’s reputation in the community. This can lead to a loss of business and revenue for the bank.
Banks can take proactive measures to protect their reputation by being transparent with customers about security measures and response plans in case of a robbery. They can also work with law enforcement to apprehend the perpetrators and demonstrate their commitment to ensuring the safety of their employees and customers.
Preventing Bank Robberies
Bank robberies have been a problem for the banking industry for many years. In the United States alone, there were over 3,000 reported bank robberies in 2019, according to the FBI. However, banks have taken measures to prevent these types of crimes from happening.
Security Measures for Banks
Banks have implemented various security measures to discourage robbers from targeting them. One of the most common is the installation of security cameras. These cameras are placed in visible locations throughout the bank and are monitored by security personnel. Banks also use alarms and panic buttons, which can be activated if a robbery is in progress. In addition, many banks have implemented access control systems that limit entry to certain areas of the bank to authorized personnel only.
Training for Bank Employees
Bank employees are trained to recognize suspicious behavior and to respond appropriately in the event of a robbery. This training includes how to activate alarms or panic buttons, how to provide accurate descriptions of robbers and their vehicles, and how to preserve evidence for law enforcement. Some banks also conduct regular drills to ensure that employees are prepared in case of an emergency.
Collaboration with Law Enforcement
Banks work closely with law enforcement to prevent robberies and to apprehend suspects. Many banks have established relationships with local police departments and have implemented protocols for reporting incidents. These protocols include providing detailed descriptions of suspects and their vehicles, as well as providing surveillance footage to law enforcement. In addition, some banks offer rewards for information leading to the arrest and conviction of bank robbers.
Responding to Bank Robberies
Bank robberies can be a stressful and dangerous situation for both bank employees and customers. That’s why it’s important for banks to have emergency protocols in place to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Emergency Protocols for Bank Employees
Bank employees should be trained in emergency procedures so they know what to do in case of a robbery. This includes staying calm, following instructions, and contacting law enforcement as soon as possible. Banks should also have panic buttons or alarms in place that can be activated discreetly if a robbery is in progress.
Employees should never try to confront a robber or act as a hero. The safety of employees and customers should always be the top priority. After a robbery, employees should follow protocols for securing the scene and providing law enforcement with any information they may have about the suspect.
Working with Law Enforcement in the Aftermath
After a robbery has occurred, it’s important for banks to work closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety of everyone involved and to catch the perpetrator. Banks should provide law enforcement with any surveillance footage or other evidence that may help in the investigation.
It’s also important for banks to provide support to employees who may have been traumatized by the experience. This includes offering counseling services and time off if needed.
According to the FBI, there were 3,267 reported bank robberies in the United States in 2019. While this number has decreased in recent years, it’s still important for banks to have emergency protocols in place and to work closely with law enforcement in the aftermath of a robbery.
Remember, the safety of everyone involved should always be the top priority during a bank robbery.
Conclusion
While bank robberies may not be as common as they were in the past, they still pose a significant risk to both bank employees and customers.
By understanding the prevalence of bank robberies, their impact, and how to prevent and respond to them, banks can take steps to minimize the risk and keep their employees and customers safe.
It’s important for banks to prioritize security measures and collaborate with law enforcement to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
