Welcome to the December Issue of the Security Spotlight
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Bank Security Guard Assisted Robbers
A former Chase Bank security guard has been arrested for her role in helping two alleged co-conspirators who stole $200,000 in cash from a couple outside a Chase Bank in Palmdale, California. Investigations revealed that the bank's security guard, Tyjana Grayes, had informed accomplices Jerry Wimbley Jr. and Roman Isaiah Smith about the couple's planned cash pickup. On the day of the robbery, Wimbley and Smith waited outside the bank, ambushed the couple, and stole the cash. Get the details at USA Today.
This article highlights a growing risk facing banks and other financial institutions today! Read more in our Bank Jugging Crimes on the Rise article.
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Bank Responds to Social Media-Induced ATM Scam
In September, a viral TikTok trend promoted an alleged "infinite money glitch" at JPMorgan Chase ATMs, encouraging users to deposit fraudulent checks and withdraw funds before verification. This led to widespread check fraud, with participants exploiting the bank's processing times to access unverified funds. JPMorgan Chase responded by freezing accounts, initiating legal action against offenders, and collaborating with law enforcement to address the issue. The bank has filed lawsuits against customers who took advantage of the scam. Read more at Banking Dive
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'Tis the season for bank robberies
The holiday season often coincides with a rise in criminal activity. During Halloween, bank staff often dress in fun and creative costumes. The day also provides an opportunity for robbers to exploit the festivities. One common tactic is for criminals to blend in with staff entering through the rear door of your institution, or to carry out a robbery in the lobby while disguised. During the Christmas season it’s not uncommon for robbers to don Santa Claus disguises. The Santa suit, complete with a big beard, provides an effective way to conceal one’s identity. Remind staff to speak to anyone wearing a costume that conceals their face. A simple conversation can deter many criminals, as they are less likely to rob a place where they’ve been noticed and acknowledged. It's essential to train your staff to be extra vigilant and aware of any unusual occurrences at your branches during this most risky time of the year.
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Questions & Answers
"What are the best practices and technologies available to ensure the safety of bank staff during branch opening procedures, especially in high-risk areas?"
Answer: Ensuring the safety of bank staff during branch opening procedures is paramount, especially in high-risk areas. Traditional methods often involve multiple employees coordinating to signal an "all-clear" before others enter, which can be cumbersome and still leave room for vulnerabilities. To enhance security and streamline these processes, there's an app for that! SafeBanker® by SaferMobility modernizes the branch opening and closing procedures by providing real-time monitoring, immediate threat alerts, and direct access to professional support during emergencies. It's compatible with Android and iOS devices, ensuring that employees can use their personal smartphones to maintain safety protocols seamlessly.
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For more of the latest security topics, visit the Security page on BankersOnline.com
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MOST WANTED
Chicago, IL...On November 20, 2024, at approximately 5:35 p.m., an unknown suspect robbed the US Bank in the Meijer store located at 750 East Rollins Road in Round Lake Beach, Illinois. The unknown suspect wore dark-rimmed glasses, a light blue medical mask, a tan coat with a dark-colored shirt underneath, dark-colored jeans, and dark-colored shoes. The FBI is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading directly to the arrest and conviction of this unknown suspect. Get the details and contact the Chicago FBI field office with any information regarding this bank robbery.
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 Visit the FBI's Unknown Bank Robbers page for photos and information on the latest unknown bank bandits, many of them with sunglasses, hats or other head and facial coverings disguising their identity. Enforcing a no hats sunglasses policy can help reduce the number of bandits who target your bank.
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Hot Topics from the Bankers Forums
You'll find security-related discussions covering sensitive topics in our Private Security forum, where bankers discuss issues out of public view. Check out the recent discussion about what to do with counterfeit bills. There's also a private forum that invites participation by bankers, regulators and members of law enforcement.
If you have a sensitive question you'd like to get input on, post it now in one of the private forums. If you're a registered user of BOL's Discussion Forums, but don't see the Private - Financial Institution Personnel Only forums near the top of the Forums list, use your bank email address to send an access request to carin @bankersonline.com. Once your request is approved, you can access the Private Security forum here. If you have a non-sensitive question or topic to share, you can post it for discussion in our Public Security forum.
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