Think Twice Before Leaving Cash in Your Vehicle
You just left the bank and need to make one quick stop. It may seem harmless to leave your cash in the car—but doing so could make you the target of a crime known as Bank Jugging.
Bank jugging is a growing crime in which suspects watch customers leaving banks, identify those who may be carrying cash, and secretly follow them. They wait for the right opportunity to burglarize a vehicle or confront the victim directly.
What Is Bank Jugging?
Criminals often position themselves near bank parking lots, ATMs, or drive-thru banking lanes and watch customers coming and going. If they believe someone is carrying cash, they may follow that person to another location, such as a grocery store, gas station, or restaurant.
Once the victim leaves their vehicle—even for just a few minutes—the suspect may break into the vehicle and steal the money or other valuables.
Customers carrying bank bags, bank envelopes, coin boxes, or other obvious cash containers are often targeted.
Warning Signs
Be alert for suspicious activity around banks, including:
- Vehicles backed into parking spaces with a clear view of the bank entrance or ATM.
- Occupants who remain inside a vehicle without entering the bank.
- Vehicles with heavily tinted windows that conceal the occupants.
- A vehicle that appears to follow you after leaving the bank.
How to Protect Yourself
Reduce your risk by following these safety tips:
- Stay aware of your surroundings before, during, and after your bank visit.
- Conceal cash, bank envelopes, and bank bags before leaving the bank whenever possible.
- Avoid making unnecessary stops between the bank and your destination.
- Never leave cash or bank bags inside your vehicle, even if hidden under a seat or in the trunk.
- If you must leave your vehicle, take your money and valuables with you.
- If you notice a vehicle following you, do not drive home.
If You Think You're Being Followed
If you believe someone is following you after leaving a bank:
- Call 911 immediately.
- Tell the dispatcher your location, direction of travel, and a description of the suspicious vehicle.
- Continue driving to the nearest police station or another safe, public location until officers can meet you.
- Do not confront the suspects or stop your vehicle.
Stay One Step Ahead
Awareness is your best defense. A few simple precautions can prevent you from becoming a victim of bank jugging. By staying alert and protecting your valuables, you can help keep yourself and your family safe.