Extra lights should be installed to guarantee acceptable illumination even if one or two of the bulbs burn out or are vandalized. The lighting should be on a regular maintenance program or be monitored by a computerized environmental control system that indicates when maintenance is required. Security experts recommend placing exterior ATMs in locations that are clearly visible to people walking or driving by. Criminals often avoid open, unobstructed locations because crimes there are more likely to be witnessed and reported quickly. When ATMs are placed in vestibules or other enclosures, the windows of the enclosure should be very large and free of obstructions such as shrubbery, signs, or posters.
Experts disagree about the effectiveness of vestibule door locks that are opened by bank cards.
The locks cannot prevent potential criminals from following customers into the vestibules where customers can be trapped with them. The locks are also susceptible to damage by vandals. Customer education is an important part of the security plan. They should take a companion on nighttime visits to ATMs, drive around the area and check between parked cars before stopping, and look inside enclosed ATM vestibules before entering. Banks should mail safety information with new bank cards and include reminders in monthly statements.