Bank machines are experiencing a decline in usage
Baden-Württemberg, a German state once notorious for ATM explosions, has seen a significant decrease in such incidents this year. This drop is primarily attributed to the belief that perpetrators are shifting their operations away from this region, targeting ATMs in neighbouring states instead[1].
Last year, the property damage from ATM explosions amounted to €5.7 million, and around €1.8 million in cash was stolen. In 2024, there were 43 cases of ATM explosions in Baden-Württemberg, with homemade explosives used in all seven cases this year. However, the first six months of 2025 have seen only seven ATMs blown up, resulting in the theft of approximately €400,000[1].
The authorities attribute this decrease to enhanced security measures in Baden-Württemberg, including better surveillance, more robust ATM protection technologies, and intensified law enforcement efforts following recent safety surveys in the state[1]. The Baden-Württemberg Minister of the Interior, Thomas Strobl (CDU), emphasizes close cooperation between police, justice, banks, and insurance companies in the fight against ATM gangs.
Many bank and savings bank premises are no longer easily accessible at night for increased protection. Increasing mechanical and electronic security techniques are being implemented, such as dye systems in cash cassettes and fogging systems. The State Criminal Police Office (LKA) is also analysing the risk factor for almost all ATM locations.
Experts advise banks to use special adhesive systems that stick cash in case of an explosion to protect it. Some ATMs have been moved from buildings into separate containers for additional security.
The perpetrators of ATM explosions are becoming more professional, with many coming from the Netherlands, with many from the Utrecht and Amsterdam regions. France is being used as a logistics base and retreat by criminals involved in ATM explosions.
The LKA is organizing workshops with the German Banking Industry Federation to address these issues and find solutions to combat this crime. The authorities' strategic focus on prevention, combined with technological upgrades in physical ATM security, likely contributes to deterring these explosive attacks.
[1] Source: LKA Baden-Württemberg press release, dated 1st June 2025.
In the fight against ATM explosions in Baden-Württemberg, the authorities believe that improved surveillance, more robust ATM protection technologies, and intensified law enforcement efforts have contributed to a decrease in such incidents [1]. Despite this progress, the perpetrators, many of whom originate from the Netherlands, particularly Utrecht and Amsterdam, are reportedly turning to financing their operations through other means, including general-news worthy activities such as crime and justice, and potentially the finance industry.
