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Explore the latest happenings at Kirtland CU and learn about important topics from around the financial world. Here’s your insight! To learn about retirements, investments and financial planning, check out Invested now.

Protecting Yourself Against Jugging

By K-Staff

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What is Jugging?

Jugging involves criminals staking out financial institutions, like banks or ATMs, where customers make cash withdrawals. The criminals follow their victims – or “jug” them – as they move from one location to another, and then strike when the victim is distracted or off-guard and has left cash or valuables in an accessible location.

Jugging can involve well-coordinated planning amongst several individuals operating as a group – don’t be fooled into assuming that it is a simple stick-up.

How to Detect Jugging

  • Look for loiterers: Thieves often use spotters to watch transactions – keep an eye out for individuals who are not conducting business around bank lobbies or parking lots.
  • Look for vehicles: Be aware of occupied vehicles that are in a position to observe a bank entrance or ATM.
  • Check for followers: When leaving, maintain situational awareness and use your mirrors to look for followers as you navigate away from your bank, credit union, or ATM. If you suspect someone is following you, go to a well-lit, public area and contact the police.
  • Stay vigilant: If you feel unsafe while still at your bank or credit union, notify an employee; many institutions can provide a security escort to your vehicle.

How to Avoid Jugging

  • Avoid large cash withdrawals: If you’re making a withdrawal for a large amount of money, ask for a cashier’s check instead of cash, as a cashier’s check can be replaced if lost or stolen.
  • Secure cash immediately: Don’t walk away with cash in hand; conceal your cash withdrawals in a pocket, purse, or other discrete place, and avoid displaying or counting your withdrawal in public view.
  • Vary your routine: Criminals often rely on predictable patterns to target potential victims. If you are making a withdrawal, alter your schedule and route to keep criminals from knowing where you are at a given time.
  • Maintain awareness: Be mindful of your surroundings when carrying cash – keep your smartphone put away and look for any suspicious behavior, like people closely monitoring or following your activities.
  • Make banking your last stop: Go directly home or to a secure location after making a large – never leave cash unattended in your vehicle, even for quick errands.
  • Utilize drive-thru services: When possible, use drive-thru ATMs or teller windows to stay inside your locked vehicle during your transaction.

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