How Common Are Bank Robberies In The UK?

We’ve all seen the classic images of bank robberies.A group of armed robbers arrive in an unmarked car, storm into the bank, and demand tellers fill their bags with cash before making a speedy getaway.

While this picture has some basis in historical fact, incidents like this are less common than they once were.

So, how common are bank robberies in the UK today?

Is a bank robbery likely?

Bank robberies were once a relatively common crime, but over time banks have become less appealing to thieves.

Physical branches are far fewer than they once were, and those that still operate hold less cash in their reserves.

Much banking activity has now moved to the digital space, meaning that criminals focus their attention at attempting to subvert cyber security measures.

Physical security within banks has also improved, making a robbery much more challenging for thieves.

Bank robberies are an even bigger risk for the would-be thief than they used to be, meaning that other targets now appear more attractive.

How often do bank robberies occur in the UK?

Bank robberies were common in the 1990s, with near-daily occurrences in London, but have been falling steadily ever since.

By 2020, there were just 58 bank robberies across the whole of the UK.

That means you’re highly unlikely to encounter a bank robbery, even if you work in a customer-facing role in a bank.

Why has the number of bank robberies in the UK fallen?

A lot has changed over the past few decades to make bank robberies less attractive to criminals and more difficult to execute successfully:

• A cashless economy

Bank branches now hold less cash as commerce moves towards cashless payments. Individuals carry less cash, and there are fewer transactions that involve currency in the form of notes and coins. Banking is moving from the physical holding of assets to digital finance, making it far less lucrative for robbers. 

• Fewer bank branches

A few decades ago most towns, as well as cities, would have a number of bank branches. They were essential to the local economy, with businesses often taking their cash at the end of the day to a local branch. Bank branches have been closing year on year, meaning there is less opportunity for criminals. 

• Improved bank security

Bank security is improving all the time, with protective screens, CCTV, and other measures that increase the physical challenge for any would-be robbers. The risks associated with robbing a bank are now higher while at the same time the potential rewards are lower than previously.

• Better capture rates

CCTV and other technologies have made bank robberies one of the easier crimes for the police to investigate and prosecute. Robbers are now far more likely to target other businesses.

Are banks now poor targets for robbers?

Advanced surveillance systems, extra-secure vaults, a range of physical security measures in customer-facing areas, and limited cash holdings, have all combined to make bank robberies less likely.

Detection rates have also improved, meaning that bank robbers are much less likely to get away with their crime than they might have been 30 years ago.

Electronic transactions have made digital crime more appealing to professional criminals than attempting to steal cash.

How can banks protect themselves against a robbery?

How many bank robberies in UK could be avoided with better security?

Today, bank robberies are relatively rare, but when they do occur it’s often at branches with a less robust security system.

Banks can further protect themselves against robberies by implementing a combination of physical security measures, technological solutions, and staff training.

High-definition surveillance systems and robust alarm systems linked to the police or private security firms can deter criminals while making it more likely that robbers will be apprehended.

Reducing cash holdings on site and using time-delay safes limit the amount of money that can be accessed.

Physical measures such as bullet-resistant glass, barriers, locked doors, and security guards all make attempted robberies less likely to be successful.

Regular security audits and staff training also play a part in keeping banks secure and their customers’ money safe.