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Question & Answer
Question: We've heard rumors about new laws coming out on ATMs, having to do with changing the VCR tape every day and not reusing the tapes at all. I'm sure that what we're hearing is exaggerated, but do you know if there is any truth at all to these stories?
Answer: For being an "out in the country" security officer, you're pretty well plugged in! The press release from the New York Governor's office was only four days old when you called.
Yes, it's more than a rumor. There was an unfortunate incident (read "horrible ATM crime") at a small bank, and though the action took place in camera range, the VCR tape was so worn and old, and had been reused so many times, there were no identifiable photos to assist the police in identifying a suspect. They even tried enhancing and enlarging with no success.
The governor's office directed emergency legislation regarding ATM surveillance tape maintenance and replacement on December 30. By January 4 that piece of legislation already had amendments proposed.
Specifically, the proposed regulation calls for any ATM surveillance carriers to use a video tape of T-120 grade quality or better. Such tape shall be used no more than once in any 30-day period. The tape shall not be used more than 12 times in total, and must be replaced not later than 365 days from the date of its first use. Once a video tape is used, it must be retained by the institution for a 30 day period prior to reuse.
We know some financial institutions have even better VCR tape rotations. We feel they should maintain their higher standards.
The emergency regulation contains a provision allowing a banking institution to request from the N.Y. Banking Superintendent approval of an alternative method of producing images, provided that such alternative method is at least as effective as the above requirements.
The proposal above is now out for comment. Though only affecting New York at the moment, we decided to include the information in this newsletter because we think this regulation sets a standard that will spread. To be forewarned, security officers, is to be forearmed.
Copyright © 2000 Bankers' Hotline. Originally appeared in Bankers' Hotline, Vol. 10, No. 1, 1/00
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