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FNB upgrades ATM security

In a bid to improve security measures further and cut down on ATM break-ins, First National Bank has installed high-tech GSM cellphone-based alarms and monitoring systems in all its ATMs countrywide.

The locally-developed GSM alarm system has already cut down on the number of ATM break-ins which last year cost FNB over R10m in cash and property damage. When an attempt is made to tamper with or break into an ATM, an alarm is recorded at a central control centre by means of an SMS message and a fast reaction unit is dispatched to the site.

"Banks constantly need to keep a step ahead of criminals," says Jean Ochse, head of FNB ATM Network. "The wireless system is state-of-the-art and heralds the era of SMS-driven alarm systems in South Africa." Ochse explains that traditional ATM alarm systems rely on telephone lines or radio transmissions which can be tampered with or cut. The SMS alarm system is said to be foolproof even against electronic attack. Any attempted electronic or mechanical tampering with the system will, through the GSM Network Interface, bring up an alarm at the control room."

The maintenance, monitoring and response contract has been outsourced to Securicor Gray, in conjunction with Cellsecure and Crewe's Security.

Jean Ochse, FNB ATM Network,

011 371 8780

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