What is Bank Jugging?
Bank Jugging is when robbers/scammers scope out members walking to ATMs, credit unions, or other financial institutions. These suspects observe members withdraw cash and start to follow them when they leave the vicinity until the member stops again, hoping they leave their money in the car unattended. The robbers then try to steal the money after breaking in.
Here are some ways to remain vigilant and safe when using the ATM or conducting banking transactions.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out when you leave the bank or ATM with cash.
- Don’t carry a lot of cash on you at once. If you are taking out a significant amount of cash, take it in a discrete manner and don’t put it in one spot.
- Take time to switch up your route every so often. If you are a frequent ATM user or visit your local financial institution, take notice of people leaving at the same time you do. In many cases, robbers can notice a pattern of behavior like that. For example, if you visit the ATM every Friday to take out cash and then go to the grocery store, that robber can notice it and could confront you at your next stop.
- Report suspicious behavior or activity. If you see something out of the norm, say something. Report it to your financial institution or the local authority as soon as possible.
- NEVER leave cash in your car. Whether you visit the ATM or bank, you should not leave large sums of cash in your car, even in your center consul or other compartments.
- Always lock your car. Even if you are just running into the store, it only takes seconds for an unattended car to be broken in to.
The main thing you need to do is stay alert and be vigilant. If something doesn’t feel right or you think you are being followed, call your local authority. If you have any questions, feel free to email media@alltrustcu.com