Given that cybercrime has become a billion-dollar industry, we certainly welcome increased focus on secure digital banking. But we also recognize the very real possibility that increased attention to data security creates physical security blindspots at bank locations and credit unions, especially those in rural areas.
Fortunately, a few investments in physical security can have a significant impact on deterring criminals.
The American Banking Association advises a holistic approach to physical bank security that takes into account building design elements, landscaping, staff, signage, and policies.
Below are some best practices based on our extensive work in the financial industry.
(For a more detailed blueprint, check out our guide to implementing security for banks and credit unions.)
Bandit Barriers: Bank Security Systems That Actually Deter Robberies
"Bandit barriers" are panels of bulletproof glass or glazing that separates tellers from bank customers.
The vast majority of bank robbers target banks without these bandit barriers because they can easily jump across the counter, according to the National Credit Union Administration.
Award-winning investigative reporter Ronald Kessler backs this up in his research, noting that banks with Plexiglas or bulletproof glass barriers between tellers and customers are robbed far less than are banks with open spaces between tellers and customers.
We've noticed this in our own work with banks and credit unions. Even those that had multiple robberies don't see a recurrence after a barrier is in place.
We help banks implement differing types of custom barriers depending on their needs. This might include a freestanding bandit barrier, which could be as simple as a large expanse of bulletproof glass with cutaways at the wickets, steel cash trays, and talk-thrus mounted at each station.
But even a seemingly straightforward ballistic barrier is still an interlocking system of bullet-resistant components. These include transparencies and cash trays, as well as bulletproof reinforcement for counters, and often at least one drawer or large passer.
Most are UL Level 1 through 3 systems, with Level 1 being the most common.
Most banks opt for either a baffle window system or an arch window system. Both styles use staggered pieces of bullet-resistant glass and provide unobstructed views for tellers, security personnel, and cameras. Speak-thru systems like hole-and-backer ports or aluminum voice-around systems allow for clear communication between staff and customers, eliminating the need for intercoms.
Learn more about ballistic transaction windows in this video.
Ballistic Glazing Considerations
For interior glazing, most banks use acrylics (for Levels 1 and 2) or laminated polycarbonates/glass-clad polycarbonate (available in any security level). Some banks choose to use ballistic security glazing on their exterior windows as well. In those cases, TSS recommends a Level 1 through 3 exterior window. The DEFENDER Ballistic Insulated Glass is a good option for many banks, offering ballistic and forced-entry ratings, provides for good thermal performance, and is available in many tints and other coating options.
Because bank tellers are stationed very close to ballistic barriers, most banks will want to consider "no-spall" or "low-spall" glazing.
Spall refers to fragments that fly into the "secure side" of a ballistic barrier system when a bullet strikes the "threat side." Spalling can be minimized by selecting the appropriate ballistic glazing: while acrylic and tempered glass produce significant spall, other materials such as laminated polycarbonate produce little, if any.
The total height of the ballistic barrier also matters: Running bullet-resistant acrylic all the way to the ceiling can add thousands of dollars to the cost in addition to adding 400 to 900 pounds of total weight to the transparency.
Other Notable Security System Elements
As mentioned above, any effective banking security system is a multi-layered defense strategy with several components working together. These include:
Bullet-Resistant Doors
Doors are one of the most critical and overlooked components in a secure system. In some attempted robberies, attackers seek to bypass teller lines by gaining access through unsecured doors or shoot through a door or window.
Many of our banking clients use doors tested to UL 752 Level 1- 3 doors and ASTM standards for forced entry to prevent this.
Access Control Systems
Contemporary systems use PIN-based entry, keycards, and biometric scanning to control movement throughout a branch. Sensitive areas like vaults, cash handling zones, and data centers are only accessible to approved personnel, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or internal theft. Integrated software provides real-time logs and audit trails, helping institutions maintain regulatory compliance with standards like PCI DSS and internal financial institution protocols.
Video Surveillance
High-definition IP cameras, combined with AI-powered analytics and cloud video storage, have transformed how banks monitor their environments. These systems identify suspicious activity, flag loitering or unusual movement, detect camera tampering, and provide instant alerts to staff or third-party monitoring services. For branches managing multiple bank locations, cloud platforms allow central monitoring and real-time access to video footage from anywhere.
Intrusion Detection and Panic Systems
When an event occurs, every second matters. That’s why intrusion detection systems use motion sensors, glass break detectors, and contact switches to alert teams to unauthorized entries—whether after hours or during business operations. Coupled with panic buttons at teller stations, these systems allow staff to discreetly notify law enforcement or security teams of a developing threat. Some systems can even trigger automatic lockdowns or send alerts to mobile devices to enhance responsiveness across distributed teams.
Case Study: Peoples Bank of Kentucky
In recent years Peoples Bank of Kentucky suffered several robberies at their rural branches. They were concerned about employee safety and wanted to replicate their existing security solution in other locations. This was a basic ballistic acrylic system, with stainless steel deal trays, package passers, and bullet-resistant fiberglass panels backing the teller counters.
The counters weren't just standard squares or rectangles, so they required significant customization and decorative countertop work.
Installation took place during the evening hours to minimize any disruptions to branches' normal operations. Technicians started working around 6 p.m. and finished the project under seven hours, even after completing additional on-site measurements of and adjustments to the barrier system.
The result was a complete, integrated system that helps employees feel safer knowing they had a bullet-resistant barrier between them and a potential attacker. They can also take shelter under the countertop in the event of a robbery or shooting.
Total Security Solutions: Your Partner In Physical Security
At Total Security Solutions, every project we deliver is tailored to your threat level, layout, aesthetic, and operational goals.
We use materials tested to the most common industry standards, including UL 752 and ASTM standards for forced entry, ensuring every product performs as expected under real-world conditions.
All our bullet-resistant systems are designed, engineered, and fabricated in the United States, giving you better quality control, direct communication, and faster turnaround.
We consistently have the industry's fastest lead times because we work with established suppliers and control our process from the initial consultation to final delivery or install.
That means fewer change orders, less downtime, and no surprises.
With over 30,000 installations, including thousands of banks and credit unions, we know how to deliver systems that protect your employees without compromising the customer experience.
To learn more about planning security upgrades for your financial institution, download this helpful checklist.
Contact TSS ballistic security experts today if you have questions or want to get started with a specific bank security project.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can banks secure ATMs and teller stations?
Banks use reinforced ATM enclosures, camera monitoring, electronic locks, anti-skimming technology, and duress alarms. Teller stations are often protected by bullet-resistant barriers and monitored by surveillance systems.
What security challenges are unique to the banking sector?
Banks face threats including armed robbery, cyber intrusions, insider fraud, and physical tampering of ATMs or safes. Compliance with regulations like the Gramm-Leach Bliley Act (GLBA) and Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) adds complexity, requiring both physical and IT security integration.
What should financial institutions look for in a security provider?
Whether you're looking for a provider to update physical security or you're investing in surveillance systems, look for a partner with a track record of successfully working with financial institutions. Physical security providers (such as bulletproof glass manufacturers) should have a strong understanding of industry standards for bullet-resistance, including UL 752 and ASTM standards.
Because every office has unique requirements, a provider that can deliver custom, integrated systems is more valuable than one that offers off-the-shelf products.
They should ask clarifying questions, including detailed photos of your site, and take exact measurements.
Avoid providers that overpromise and underdeliver. Choose a team that listens, responds, and gets the job done right—the first time. Learn more about red flags to avoid when choosing a bulletproofing partner.
How can smaller community banks affordably improve their security?
Smaller community banks need smart solutions tailored to their risks and operations. At Total Security Solutions, we specialize in helping smaller financial institutions secure their spaces affordably, without sacrificing protection or customer experience.
We also help banks phase in protection over time, prioritizing the most vulnerable locations or highest-risk areas first. Our team designs systems that integrate seamlessly with existing architecture so you don’t need to rip out counters or start from scratch.
