ATM theft cases are on a rise in Odisha in last couple of years. While in 2017-18, as many as 15 ATM theft cases were reported, the number went up to 20 in 2018-19 with an amount of Rs 1.50 crore.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has informed that the numbers of burglary, dacoity, robbery and theft in ATMs, as reported by banks and financial institutions to the RBI were 303 in 2017-18 and 515 in 2018-19. The amount involved was Rs 11.22 crore and Rs 25.47 crore, respectively.
The RBI has directed all the banks to take steps for ensuring safety of the cash vending machines. The RBI’s Circular on June 11 to all banks says all ATMs shall be operated for cash replenishment only with digital One Time Combination (OTC) locks.
Besides, the ATMs shall be grouted to a structure (wall, pillar, floor, etc.), except for ATMs installed in highly secured premises such as airports, etc. which have adequate CCTV coverage and are guarded by State / Central security personnel. And, banks have to consider rolling out a comprehensive e-surveillance mechanism at the ATMs to ensure timely alerts and quick response.
