Have you ever felt anxious after withdrawing money from an ATM or while dealing with a teller inside a bank? It’s always important to be vigilant, keep our PINs hidden, and avoid withdrawing large amounts.

However, there’s a new type of crime known as “bank manipulation” that targets individuals as they leave financial institutions, making every visit to the bank a step that requires caution.

What is “bank manipulation”?

“Bank manipulation” is a term that refers to a type of crime where criminals lurk around banks, ATMs, or check-cashing centers to monitor customers who are withdrawing cash.

The perpetrators patiently stalk their victims and wait for the right moment to commit the theft. Individuals are advised to be cautious not only while withdrawing but also when leaving the bank and moving to other locations, as these moments are the most vulnerable.

Crime prevalence

The state of Texas has seen a notable increase in “bank manipulation” cases, with the Austin police reporting losses exceeding $500,000 in 2022 alone. But this crime is not limited to Texas.

In Florida, cameras showed a man smashing a car window and stealing a cash envelope after following the victim's car from a Bank of America and waiting until the driver entered a restaurant to attack. In another incident in Fairfax, Virginia, three criminals followed a victim who withdrew $10,000 from the bank to a local shopping center and waited for her to exit the vehicle to seize the money.

Legal penalties

Although the law does not officially recognize the term “bank manipulation,” those who commit these crimes may face charges of theft or robbery.

In Texas, stealing from a bank customer is punishable by imprisonment for 2 to 20 years and a fine of up to $10,000.

This crime is considered a second-degree felony. If the perpetrator uses a weapon, it is considered a first-degree felony, and the sentence can reach 99 years in prison.

Tips to protect yourself

Here are some tips from law enforcement agencies to avoid falling victim to this type of crime:

• Be vigilant in bank lobbies and parking lots.

• Avoid being distracted by your phone or using earphones during financial transactions.

• Pay attention to any vehicles that may be following you after leaving the bank.

• Hide cash in a bag different from the cash envelope before leaving the bank.

• Make sure to lock your car doors when you enter.

• Do not leave large amounts of cash in your car.

• If you feel you are being followed, call the police or head to the nearest police station.

• Talk to bank security about safety procedures when withdrawing large amounts.

Awareness is the first key to protecting yourself from “bank manipulation.” By taking these simple steps, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to this crime.