De Nederlandsche Bank outlined a three-layer approach to combating explosive ATM attacks, covering stronger machines, systems that render stolen banknotes unusable and public refusal of stained notes. Police recorded 19 attacks in the Netherlands in the first half of 2026, down from 129 during the 2013 peak, but the attacks continue to cause property damage, business disruption and risks to bystanders. Physical upgrades have curtailed methods involving explosive powder, gas, vehicle ramming and removal of ATMs. Glue and indelible ink can bind or stain banknotes during an attack, while synthetic DNA mixed into the ink allows the Netherlands Forensic Institute to trace notes to a specific ATM and potentially link suspects or vehicles to an offense. Consumers and businesses are encouraged to reject stained or chemically altered notes, which can make stolen cash harder to circulate.
2026-09-17De Nederlandsche Bank
De Nederlandsche Bank outlines three defenses against explosive ATM attacks after 19 incidents in first half of 2026
De Nederlandsche Bank outlined three defenses against explosive ATM attacks: stronger machines, banknote neutralization and refusal of stained notes. The Netherlands recorded 19 attacks in the first half of 2026. Indelible ink and synthetic DNA can make stolen cash unusable and help investigators trace it to a specific ATM.