THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: ATMs holding lakhs of rupees are equipped with only cameras for security, leaving police frustrated. The police are facing difficulties in controlling ATM robberies. Police have directed that banks should take extra precautions to combat ATM thefts in the state.

ATMs are secured with two types of cameras- CCTV cameras and AI-enabled cameras connected to a control room. These cameras provide security for the money inside the ATM and for users withdrawing cash using their cards. CCTV cameras are connected to the bank's branches, while AI cameras are linked to the bank's control room.

Professional gangs from outside the state, specializing in ATM thefts, are behind these robberies. Equipped with heavy weapons and modern equipment, these robbers pose a significant challenge even for the police. The police suggest that banks must take proactive measures to prevent such incidents. The police have proposed the following measures to enhance ATM security:

1. Consolidate ATMs of various banks at a single location.
2. Entrust security to specialized private agencies.
3. Close ATM counters in isolated or low-security areas, especially those far from police stations, during nighttime.

According to reports, more than 20 major ATM thefts occur annually in the state. Additionally, numerous attempted thefts are also reported. Earlier, thieves employed tactics like stealing card information, jamming the cash dispenser, and intimidating users to steal their money. However, the current trend involves stealing the entire ATM from the counter. Even with advanced security features in place, thieves are managing to bypass and tamper with ATM machines at will.

Headquarters will receive control room alerts

1. Control rooms of the banks are located in Mumbai, Chennai, or Delhi. In the event of a theft attempt, an alarm is triggered and alerts are sent to these control rooms. The alerts are then automatically relayed to the respective bank branch officials and the nearest police station. Upon receiving the alert, bank officials immediately contact the police. Bank security officers and police rush to the scene.
2. The thieves can disrupt this system by damaging the camera's network connection. If the network connection is disrupted or the camera is obscured, the control room will receive an alert to investigate. However, this process can take around 30 minutes, providing ample time for the theft to occur.