50 MARCH / APRIL 2017 It seems that everybody knows everybody in a small town, creating a cocoon of comfort where people think, “Nothing ever happens here.” This familiarity can lead to a trust that makes security seem less important. However, that bubble can burst in an instant. Financial institutions in small towns are as susceptible to criminal threats and activities as those in the bigger cities. In fact in the criminal world, it is assumed that institutions in rural areas are under protected and easily accessible. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking serious criminal activity is rare in rural areas. There are several steps banks can take to remain vigilant, and cameras are an obvious first step. Make sure there are plenty of external cameras, and that they can capture a person’s face. A shot of the top of someone’s head is not as helpful as a facial picture for recognition and identification. Cameras are equally important inside the building. It can be difficult for employees to remember details about a criminal’s face, voice and other identifying features, because the stress of a robbery or the threat of a weapon can lead to tunnel vision. At the open and close of each business day, make sure there are at least two staff members at your institution. You can also make the building safer to open and close by updating the building’s landscaping. Remove any bushes or other small structures where a criminal can hide and wait outside the building. Regarding suspicious behaviors, know what constitutes suspicious behavior, and pay attention to seemingly small details. If it doesn’t feel right, it probably is not. Criminals often will case a business for 24 to 72 hours prior to the actual robbery. They might come into the lobby and ask nonfinancial questions about armed security and business hours. In some cases, they might walk in, not talk to anyone, and scout for cameras and exit doors. It is a red flag if someone is lingering in the lobby, or outside the building, without doing business. Of course, if a robbery occurs, the consequences of monetary losses are obvious, but it also is important to be aware of the emotional toll it could have on employees. A proper care and assistance program must be in place for the mental and physical health of staff, otherwise problems can remain long after the incident is over. One common issue is known as group thinking. After a traumatic situation, the two or three employees who were at the scene might band together in hypervigilance if their stress issues are not being handled appropriately. This can lead to alienation from the rest of the staff, escalation of fears and potential resignation. Don’t lose valued employees because a situation was not handled correctly. Instead, have a plan, and discuss it prior to any incident happening. The need for security does not change because of geography or demographics. No matter the size or location of your institution, investing in the safety and security of your customers and staff is time and resources well spent. HB Threat Assessment It can happen anywhere Article author Mike Burke Robbery & Crisis Management Consultant The SHAZAM Network mburke@shazam.net The SHAZAM Network is a Preferred Service Provider of the Indiana Bankers Association and an IBA Diamond Associate Member. SECURITY / FRAUD
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