(15 December 2008 – Australia) After a spate of recent attacks on ATMs, CBA has announced a defensive device that can detect the presence of gas used in exploding an ATM.The Commonwealth Bank (CBA) announced that it has commenced upgrading security systems on its ATM network, with enhancement work to now be accelerated.
CBA ATMs were among those that have been targeted by thieves in bombings in recent weeks.
Among the measures being installed is a gas detection system that will trigger instantaneous onsite and back to base alarm notifications when the device detects the presence of gas.
In one attack, the thieves ran a gas line into the CBA ATM, causing it to explode.
Ross McEwan, Retail Banking Services group executive said that machines and branches have been damaged extensively and as a result denied access to customers.
McEwan added that while protecting the Bank’s assets was very important, providing safe and secure access to ATM and branch services for customers was also a primary concern.
Where possible CBA wants to prevent even greater impacts of blowing up ATMs, including the potential for unintended injury to the public, bank personnel and contractors, McEwan said.
The widespread installation of preventative measures, including gas detection, will be in addition to the bank’s existing security, such as cash dye protection devices.