5 Tips to Modernise Security in Banks

Bank security has never been more important—or more complex. Today’s financial institutions face an evolving landscape of threats that go far beyond a masked robber walking through the front door. Cyber-physical attacks, insider threats, social engineering scams, and coordinated heists now require banks to adopt a holistic, technology-driven security strategy.

Modernising security isn’t just about staying compliant with regulations; it’s about protecting customer trust, reducing losses, and creating a safer environment for employees and visitors. In this guide, we’ll explore five practical ways banks can modernise their security posture in 2025 and beyond.

1. Upgrade to Smart Access Control Systems

Traditional keys and mechanical locks no longer cut it for modern banking security. Lost keys, duplicated cards, or unmanaged visitor access create significant vulnerabilities. Modern access control systems allow banks to regulate who enters restricted areas—such as cash handling rooms, server rooms, and executive offices—using digital credentials that can be issued, revoked, and monitored in real time.

Key Benefits of Smart Access Control:

• Granular Permissions: Assign access based on employee roles, ensuring only authorized staff can enter vault areas or ATM maintenance rooms.

• Audit Trails: Generate detailed logs of every entry and exit event for compliance and investigations.

• Remote Management: Change permissions instantly across multiple branches from a central dashboard—perfect for banks with hundreds of locations.

• Multi-Factor Authentication: Combine card readers with PIN codes or biometrics for an extra layer of protection.

By adopting a cloud-based access control solution, banks can future-proof their infrastructure and integrate with video surveillance, intrusion alarms, and HR systems for a fully unified security environment.

2. Deploy AI-Powered Video Surveillance

Surveillance cameras have long been a cornerstone of bank security, but they are becoming smarter. AI video surveillance platforms like Coram uses machine learning to detect suspicious behavior in real time—like loitering near ATMs, tailgating through secure doors, or abrupt movements that could signal an assault.

Instead of merely recording footage, AI systems can trigger alerts to security staff, helping them intervene before an incident escalates. This proactive approach reduces false alarms, improves investigation efficiency, and deters would-be criminals.

When selecting a solution, look for:

• NDAA-compliant hardware and software

• Integration with access control and alarm systems

• Advanced search features (facial recognition, object detection)

• Secure cloud or hybrid storage with encrypted data transmission

This single upgrade can dramatically increase visibility across all branches while reducing operational workload.

3. Embrace Cybersecurity-Conscious Physical Security

Bank security can no longer be divided into “physical” and “cyber.” Most physical systems—cameras, alarm panels, ATMs—are now IoT devices connected to the bank’s network. A breach of a poorly secured security camera can become a backdoor into the entire IT infrastructure.

Best Practices for Cyber-Physical Security:

• Regular Patching & Firmware Updates: Keep all security hardware updated to eliminate known vulnerabilities.

• Network Segmentation: Isolate physical security systems from customer-facing banking networks.

• End-to-End Encryption: Protect data in transit from cameras, access readers, and sensors.

• Zero-Trust Approach: Authenticate every device and user before granting access to the network.
  

Banks that blend IT and physical security teams (often called converged security) are better prepared for ransomware attacks, insider sabotage, and regulatory audits.

4. Introduce Behavioral Analytics & Insider Threat Detection

Most bank thefts aren’t from masked robbers—they’re from employees or contractors with legitimate access. Insider fraud, data leaks, and cash theft can go undetected for months unless a proactive detection system is in place.

Behavioral analytics uses machine learning to understand normal employee patterns and flags anomalies. Examples:

• Employees accessing systems at unusual hours

• Repeated small cash withdrawals just below reporting thresholds

• Excessive printing or downloading of sensitive data

Integrating behavioral analytics with HR data can even provide early warnings of employees at risk of malicious behavior (e.g., financial stress, sudden absenteeism). This not only prevents losses but also supports a safer workplace.

5. Streamline Incident Response with Centralised Command

Even with the best security systems, incidents will occur. What separates a minor event from a PR crisis is how quickly and effectively a bank responds.

Modern security operations centers (SOCs) or command platforms can aggregate data from cameras, alarms, access systems, and cyber tools into a single dashboard. This allows security teams to:

• See what’s happening across all branches in real time

• Trigger lockdowns or mass notifications instantly

• Collaborate with law enforcement or emergency responders seamlessly

• Generate compliance-ready reports after an incident

The faster an incident is contained, the less financial and reputational damage the bank suffers.

Bonus Tip: Train Your People

Technology is only as effective as the people using it. Regular training for staff—tellers, branch managers, IT teams—is essential. Cover:

• How to spot phishing attempts and social engineering

• How to respond to duress alarms or robbery attempts

• Proper procedures for visitor management and data handling

When security awareness becomes part of your culture, the human layer transforms from a weak point into a strong defense.

FAQs

Why should banks upgrade security systems regularly?

Criminal tactics evolve quickly. Regular upgrades ensure your systems can defend against the latest physical and cyber threats while staying compliant with banking regulations like FFIEC, PCI-DSS, and GDPR.

What role does AI play in bank security?

AI powers real-time detection of suspicious behavior, automates investigations, and reduces false alarms—allowing security teams to focus on real threats instead of being overwhelmed by alerts.

How much does modernising bank security cost?

It varies depending on the size of the institution and number of branches. Cloud-based systems often reduce upfront capital expenditure by shifting to a subscription model.

Are cloud-based security solutions safe for banks?

Yes—when deployed correctly. Leading vendors offer end-to-end encryption, SOC 2 compliance, and strict access controls to meet banking security standards.

How do banks balance customer convenience with strong security?

By using layered security. Multi-factor authentication, role-based access, and AI monitoring protect assets without adding unnecessary friction for legitimate customers.

Final Takeaway

Bank security in 2025 is no longer about cameras on walls and guards at doors—it’s about building an integrated, intelligent, and agile security ecosystem. By combining smart access control, AI-driven video surveillance, cybersecurity best practices, behavioral analytics, and centralized incident response, banks can protect their assets, customers, and reputation while keeping operations smooth.

Modernising your security isn’t a one-time project—it’s a continuous process. The financial sector is a top target for crime, and the only way to stay ahead is to adapt faster than the threats evolve.