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Keeping ATMs secure rity layer, as most anchor kits can
withstand high impacts.
TM crimes are on the rise in the United States, especially since many • Physical security: Many attacks
ATM deployers have yet to upgrade their terminals to EMV, and happen at the ATM's top cabinet.
debit cards issued here still include mag stripes, which are easy to Upgrading locks and managing
A duplicate. Wise placement of ATMs enhances security, and knowl- key access is a sound method of
edgeable technicians can spot tampering and malicious hardware. Here are preventing unauthorized entry
further tips to improve ATM security: to the terminal, which houses
• Physical barriers: Concrete pylons or bollards create a physical barricade the main board and dispenser
around ATMs, which helps prevent smash-and-grab attacks. Other deter- connections. Alarms installed at
rents include ATM body armor that surrounds the terminal in steel plat- ATM access points will notify site
ing, and anchor kits. Bolting ATMs to the ground provides an extra secu- staff when a terminal is breached,
adding another layer of security.
Security management software
with remote diagnosis or other
monitoring solutions facilitate
management and monitoring of
terminals in real time.
• Up-to-date software: Slow EMV
migration has left U.S. ATMs sus-
ceptible to cyberattacks. Install-
ing software updates and secu-
rity patches in a timely manner is
vital to protecting operating sys-
tems from unauthorized down-
loads of malware and skimming
software. Regularly updating
passwords and monitoring all
who have access to ATMs adds
another layer of security.
• Video cameras: Surveillance
cameras deter crime and help
protect the ATM deployers and
customers. On-site video cam-
eras can monitor the ATM and
surrounding area or the terminal
itself. Even when thieves wear
hats, sunglasses, etc., those items
can act as identifiers.
To learn more about potential threats
and solutions available to protect
ATMs, download the new white
paper, Improving ATM Security, at
www.mvpatm.com.
Mark D. Smith
MVP Financial Equipment
Mark,

Thank you for sending in these most
useful tips.
Editor
Want to share your knowledge?
Do you have helpful advice for your
colleagues in payments? We'll wel-
come your perspectives at greensheet@
greensheet.com.

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