The surge in ATM attacks is posing a rising threat to cash transactions, particularly in Switzerland.
In 2024, there were 25 successful bomb attacks on ATMs, indicating a significant increase in violent crime targeting cash dispensers. Although this number is lower than the peaks of 2019 and 2022, which saw 56 and 57 attacks respectively, the trend of explosive-related incidents has raised concerns among law enforcement agencies.
The Jura region has been heavily affected, with three attacks occurring in May alone. Investigations into these incidents have revealed potential links between various thefts, suggesting a coordinated effort among perpetrators. The complexity of prosecuting these cross-border crimes is evident, as the Federal Public Prosecutor's Office (MPC) is currently managing around 100 criminal proceedings related to ATM attacks. International cooperation is crucial in combating these crimes, as perpetrators often operate across cantonal and national borders. The recent arrest of 13 individuals in Strasbourg, who are believed to have been involved in a series of ATM robberies across Switzerland, France, and Germany, highlights the importance of such cooperation.
Financial institutions are responding to the increasing threat by reevaluating their strategies for cash distribution. BCJ, for example, plans to close several branches in the Jura region and relocate ATMs to safer, more strategic locations. The bank aims to install new machines in busy public spaces, away from residential areas. This approach reflects a broader initiative to adapt to the changing landscape of cash transactions. While the future of cash remains uncertain due to the rise of digital transactions, the need for secure cash access points remains critical, especially in regions experiencing heightened criminal activity.