A series of cash machine explosions across Austria in recent weeks has prompted banks to tighten security, with some taking machines out of service and others restricting access to their lobbies at night.

The latest incident occurred on Monday at a shopping centre in Wels, Upper Austria.

Post, BAWAG, Bank Austria, Erste Group and Raiffeisen have all confirmed they are responding to the attacks.

Machines Taken Out of Service

Post spokesperson Markus Leitgeb said the damage extended beyond the cash machines themselves.

“The damage affects not just the machines, but also the premises, potential structural issues and the disruption to operations, which lasts around a week – easily a six-figure sum,” he said.

As a result, the company has taken some machines out of service “until further notice.” While bank lobbies will remain open, affected machines will be clearly marked to deter further attacks.

“The hope is that the perpetrators will see this and, ideally, leave empty-handed,” Leitgeb said. However, he did not specify how many machines were affected or whether both indoor and outdoor units were included in the closures.

Night-Time Closures

BAWAG has taken a different approach, announcing the temporary closure of its lobbies overnight.

“One key measure we are currently implementing is the night-time closure of our lobbies between 10:00 pm and 5:00 am,” the bank said in a statement. Cash machines outside branches will remain accessible.

Meanwhile, Bank Austria has confirmed it has strengthened security measures but declined to provide further details, citing “security reasons.” Erste Group is also reviewing additional security measures, according to a spokesperson.

Vienna’s Raiffeisen branches have likewise stepped up security precautions, although the company has, so far, been spared from the explosions since last autumn.