NCJ Number
77548
Date Published
1979
Length
11 pages
Annotation
Aspects of terrorist threats to banks are discussed, and some ways in which banks are responding to such threats are described.
Abstract
Banks are logical terrorist targets because they symbolize the capitalistic system opposed by many terrorist groups and provide a ready source of funds for terrorist arms and activities. Terrorist activities involving banks can include not only robberies but also the kidnapping of bank executives and their family members for ransom. Many banks and banking systems have developed security and crisis management procedures that take into account these potential terrorist threats. One aspect of security management is the establishment of a liaison with police forces to develop procedures designed to protect customers, personnel, and their families; to ensure that the incident terminates without loss of life; and to discourage future repetition of the attacks. In an effort to prepare bank executive officers and their families to deal with possible terrorist threats, banks provide support for officers and their families to attend protective driving courses and learn from specialists the principles and tactics of evasion. Other security steps taken by banks include identifying major problems, establishing a crisis management mechanism, strengthening security groups internally, and assessing existing security measures and equipment. Additional steps include taking adequate security measures for executives and their families, the institution of security awareness programs, preplanning with media management to discuss principles of media response to potential hostage-taking incidents, and preplanning for emergencies.