7 Ways to Increase Retail Foot Traffic

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If you are a store owner wanting to increase retail foot traffic, an ATM can help. When competing with other retailers, getting customers through the door is half the battle. Whether you operate a convenience store, liquor store, smoke shop, laundromat, salon, or independent grocery, increasing foot traffic directly impacts sales, customer loyalty, and long-term profitability.

Fortunately, small operational changes and strategic additions can make a major difference. Here are 7 effective ways you can increase your retail foot traffic including one overlooked solution that brings customers inside while also generating revenue: ATM placement.

1. Offer In-Store Convenience Services

Customers are more likely to visit stores that solve multiple needs at once. Adding convenience-based services encourages repeat visits and increases time spent on site.

Popular add-on services include bill payment kiosks, lottery sales, money transfer services, package pickup/drop-off, coffee or snack stations, and ATM machines.

The more reasons customers have to stop by, the more opportunities you create for additional purchases.

Specifically, ATMs work because they create a reason for people to enter your business. Many customers searching for cash will choose the nearest ATM location, and once they’re inside, impulse purchases often follow. For cash-heavy businesses especially, an ATM can also encourage higher spending because customers have immediate access to cash on site.

2. Improve Exterior Visibility

Your storefront is your first impression. Even excellent businesses lose potential customers if people don’t notice them. 

You can improve visibility with bright signage, window graphics promoting specials, sidewalk signs or banners, well-lit entrances, and clearly visible hours of operation. If you install an ATM, exterior ATM signage can also attract drivers and pedestrians looking specifically for cash access.

3. Run Limited-Time Promotions

Urgency motivates action. Promotions that are time-sensitive encourage customers to visit sooner rather than later. For example, you can offer weekend-only specials, BOGO offers, loyalty rewards, seasonal discounts, and flash sales. These can be advertised on social media for more reach, too.

Furthermore, combining promotions with ATM availability can increase average transaction size by making cash immediately accessible to customers.

4. Build a Strong Local Presence

Customers often prefer businesses that feel connected to the local community. Therefore, consider sponsoring local events and school fundraisers. You can host community giveaways and partner with neighboring businesses.

An ATM can also strengthen your location’s reputation as a neighborhood convenience hub, especially in areas with limited banking access. And you can customize your ATM equipment with local high school or college branding to show support for your community. 

5. Optimize Your Store Layout

A cluttered or confusing store discourages browsing. A clean, intuitive layout encourages customers to stay longer and make additional purchases.

Focus on clear walking paths, organized product displays, and high-demand items near the back of the store. Put impulse-buy sections near the checkout. And make sure your space is clean and well-lit.

Store layout, lighting, and cleanliness also impact ATM usage. You want your ATM to be clearly visible, easily accessible, and safe. Strategically placing an ATM near the entrance or checkout area can increase visibility while encouraging usage and additional in-store spending.

6. Use Social Media to Drive Visits

Even small retailers benefit from active social media marketing. Posting regularly keeps your business top-of-mind and gives customers a reason to visit. It also meets them where they are, improving your reputation for being engaged and involved.

Share content like new product arrivals, daily specials, customer shoutouts, behind-the-scenes videos, and event announcements. If your store has an ATM, mention the convenience factor in your posts, especially if nearby bank branches or ATMs are limited or charge more.

7. Create a Better Customer Experience

Friendly service still matters. Customers return to businesses where they feel welcomed and valued.

Simple improvements could include fast checkout times, friendly greetings, clean restrooms, consistent product availability, and well-trained employees.

Convenience also contributes to customer satisfaction. Offering on-site ATM access removes friction and helps customers complete purchases without leaving your store.

Adding an ATM Can Increase Retail Foot Traffic

One of the simplest ways to increase foot traffic and create passive income is through an on-site ATM. Each of the 7 ways to increase retail foot traffic above rely on or at least include ATM benefits. 

Increasing retail foot traffic doesn’t always require expensive advertising campaigns or major renovations. Often, the most effective strategies focus on convenience, visibility, and customer experience.

Adding an ATM is one of the few upgrades that can simultaneously bring more customers into your store and increase average purchase amounts. It improves customer convenience and has the potential to generate additional monthly income. 

If you don’t already have one, there are two routes to getting an ATM into your retail store: purchase and operate one yourself or participate in an ATM placement program.

How an ATM Placement Program Works

Owning and operating an ATM machine requires initial equipment purchase and ongoing cash loading, troubleshooting, and software and hardware maintenance. If you have the bandwidth to add those responsibilities to your workload, you can own and operate your own ATM machine and consider the surcharge income an additional revenue stream.

However, you can also increase retail foot traffic and offer added convenience to your customers without the extra effort through an ATM placement program. In this scenario, an independent ATM deployer (IAD) handles all of the logistics of ATM operation in exchange for a location (your store) to operate from! 

It’s a win-win, and you may even be able to negotiate a share of the surcharge revenue and still benefit from that added income for a fraction of the effort and almost no startup cost. In most cases, ATM placement programs are free to enter!

If you work with ATMDepot, the process is as easy as completing an ATM placement request and getting paired with an IAD in your area.

With an ATM placement program, a provider installs and maintains the ATM at little or no upfront cost to you, the business owner. In this arrangement, retailers benefit from increased customer visits, additional impulse purchases, and improved convenience for customers. 

An added bonus is the potential for passive surcharge revenue. In an ATM placement program, you reap all the benefits of increased retail foot traffic without the hassle of managing cash loading or maintenance, depending on your contract agreement.

Businesses like convenience stores, gas stations, bars and nightclubs, smoke shops, restaurants, salons, laundromats, hotels, and entertainment venues commonly benefit from ATM placement.

For many retailers, an ATM becomes more than a convenience feature; it becomes a revenue-generating traffic driver.

Bottom Line: Get an ATM in Your Store

If you’re looking for a practical way to grow retail foot traffic while adding value for customers, an ATM placement program may be worth exploring. However, if you are driven more by additional revenue, consider operating your own machine. Either way, if you don’t already have an ATM on-site, learn more about how to get one today!

Discontinued ATM Models: Which Machines Can Be Upgraded and Which Are Obsolete?

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The ATM industry evolves quickly. Security standards, compliance requirements, and payment technologies like EMV mean that machines that were reliable a decade ago may now be difficult—or impossible—to operate, resulting in discontinued ATM models.

This is important for ATM deployers and operators who want to save some money buying used equipment. However, the key question is not just whether a model is discontinued, but whether it can still be upgraded, refurbished, and kept in service.

This guide breaks down discontinued models from three major ATM manufacturers and explains which machines are still viable in the secondary market and which ones should be replaced entirely. This guide will also compare cost options to help deployers decide whether buying used or buying new makes more sense.

Understanding “Discontinued” vs. “Obsolete”

Not every discontinued ATM is obsolete. There are generally three categories:

The first is discontinued but still serviceable. In these cases, the manufacturer no longer produces the model, but parts, upgrades, and software support still exist.

The second category is discontinued but upgradeable. Older machines may be able to remain compliant with upgrades like new encrypted PIN pads, EMV readers, or updated software.

The third category is obsolete. These machines cannot meet modern network security requirements or are no longer supported with parts. These typically must be replaced because if they are non-compliant, they won’t operate.

Security standards like PCI encryption requirements and EMV card support have forced many older ATMs out of circulation. Machines without upgrade paths can no longer be legally or practically deployed on U.S. networks.

Triton Discontinued ATM Models

Triton has been producing ATMs since the early 1990s and remains one of the most reliable brands in the retail ATM market. Many older models are now discontinued but are still widely used in refurbished form. The Triton ecosystem benefits from strong third-party support.

Older, non-CE (Windows) based Triton ATM models generally cannot be upgraded to meet modern PCI compliance standards (specifically TR-31 key block support) and must be replaced. This includes the following models:

  • Triton 9100
  • Triton 9600
  • Triton 9700
  • Triton 8100

These models are not upgradable. They lack the necessary hardware/software support for TR-31 key blocks, which are mandated by PCI standards. There are cabinet restrictions, too, and Triton models must be able to support the latest software Versions for X-Scale, X2 and X3 mainboards, along with a T10 keypad.

However, the following discontinued CE-based Triton models are are commonly found in refurbished inventories and can still be viable with upgrades:

These machines can support the Triton T10 TR-31 capable EPPs. Therefore, they are frequently refurbished and sold in the secondary market because they remain durable and relatively easy to service.

It is important to note that while these models can sometimes still be found in service, parts availability is becoming inconsistent. Therefore, many deployers simply replace them rather than invest in upgrades.

Genmega Discontinued ATM Models

Genmega entered the ATM market more recently. They are known for affordable retail machines and strong technical support. Their machines are generally modern enough that fewer models are truly obsolete, but earlier units are starting to age out.

For example, Genmega and Hantle models must be able to support the latest software Versions and have an EPP-B3 or EPP-B5 keypad installed. Furthermore, the following models cannot meet current security standards regarding TR-31 compatibility and must be replaced:

  • Hantle/Genmega 1700 (Basic/non-W)
  • Hantle/Genmega E4000
  • Hantle/Genmega C4000 (older models, specifically those starting with BYAF, or BYAB05000 or lower)

Genmega G1900 is an older but still serviceable model. The G1900 remains one of the most widely deployed low-cost ATMs and can still be upgraded with newer keypads and software when required.

The Hantle 1700W (formerly Tranax 1700W) was a popular free-standing retail ATM known for its affordability and dependability. While the 1700W is discontinued and non-compliant as originally manufactured with current U.S. network and security standards, some are still processing after being upgraded. 

While the manufacturer no longer offers parts, software updates, or support, many parts for the Genmega G2500 are compatible with the older Hantle 1700W. Major components such as the cash dispenser, keypad, and power supply are compatible because both brands have a shared history and design heritage.

Other models that typically replace older Genmega deployments include

These machines include modern compliance features such as EMV readers and encrypted keypads. The following models can remain in operation with an upgraded keypad:

  • Genmega 1700W
  • Genmega C6000
  • Genmega T4000
  • Genmega G2900
  • Genmega G3000 (W)
  • Genmega G3500
  • Newer C4000 models

The WRG Genesis and Apollo models are not Genmega brands, but they are often confused with them. They are discontinued and non-compliant.

Hyosung Discontinued ATM Models

Hyosung is one of the largest ATM manufacturers in the world and has a long history in the U.S. market through brands like Nautilus Hyosung and Hyosung TNS. Their discontinuation list spans a wide range, from truly obsolete machines to units that remain highly serviceable with proper upgrades.

The following are obsolete or end-of-support models. These machines often lack modern compliance features or have limited upgrade paths:

  • MBxxxx
  • NH1500
  • NH1800
  • NH1800CE
  • NH2100T
  • NH5000CE
  • NH5300CE

These models often lack EMV capability or require costly upgrades that exceed the value of the machine. On the other hand, there are still discontinued ATM models that are common in refurbished markets:

The Halo was replaced by the Halo II but remains a popular refurbished option for retail locations.

When an ATM Is Truly Obsolete

A machine is generally considered obsolete if it has no EMV upgrade path, supported encrypted PIN pad, or software updates available. It might also be considered obsolete if there is limited parts availability or processor/network incompatibility.

When these factors apply, continuing to operate the machine can cause downtime, compliance issues, or processor rejection.

Cost Comparison: Buy Used Discontinued ATM Models and Upgrade vs. Buy New

One of the biggest decisions deployers face is whether to purchase used discontinued ATM models and upgrade them or invest in new or refurbished units. Here’s the breakdown:

If you buy used and upgrade, the typical cost might range from $800-$1,800 depending on the model and the upgrades. Common upgrades might include EMV card readers, new encrypted PIN pad (EPP), software updates, and/or wireless communication kits.

The obvious benefit of going this route is you get the lowest upfront cost. It’s a good option for experienced operators who know the ins and outs of the equipment. They can, in that case, be easy to deploy in high-risk or temporary locations. 

The downfall is that these machines have a shorter remaining lifespan. The lifespan of an average machine is 10-15 years. So if you purchase a machine that is 10 years old, you don’t have that many years left to expect from it. You also face potential parts shortages, which is especially threatening as older machines require more maintenance.

Buying certified refurbished comes with a higher price tag: $2,000 – $3,200. However, refurbished ATMs are usually fully rebuilt with updated components and warranties.

They are still cheaper than purchasing new, and they already come with updated components, including warranty. Although, they are still older machines, are based on older platforms, and may be approaching end-of-life sooner than new models.

Your third option is to buy new. Expect to pay anywhere from $2,800-$4,500+ for new equipment. However, this will give you the longest lifespan, full manufacturer support, the latest security and compliance features, and lower maintenance costs.

The only real drawback is the higher upfront investment.

Best Choice for New ATM Deployers

If you’re new to the ATM business, buying new or certified refurbished machines is usually the safest option. New deployers often benefit from warranty protection, fewer service issues, and compatibility with modern processors.

Installation is simpler with newer machines, too. Troubleshooting older machines can be difficult without experience in ATM hardware and software.

Best Choice for Experienced Deployers

Operators with years of experience often prefer used machines with upgrades. This is typically because experienced deployers can repair machines themselves, source parts inexpensively, upgrade keypads and EMV modules, and afford to manage maintenance costs.

This approach allows experienced operators to deploy more machines with lower capital investment.

Are Discontinued ATM Models for You?

Not every discontinued ATM is considered retired. Many older machines can still produce reliable revenue if they are able to remain compliant and serviceable.

However, deployers should regularly evaluate their fleet and replace machines that are no longer upgradeable, too expensive and troublesome to repair, and/or incompatible with modern security standards.

The biggest red flag to look for are deals that are too good to be true. If you come across a “cheap” used model, be sure you’re purchasing equipment you can upgrade and turn a profit from rather than purchasing dead weight….

A balanced strategy—mixing new machines in high-volume locations and refurbished units in lower-volume sites—often provides the best return on investment.

The bottom line: don’t overpay for ATM machines that come with hidden strings attached. Don’t let a “great price” on an ATM machine turn into an expensive mistake. 

If you’re looking for ATM equipment that actually makes you money, ATMDepot carries equipment for a variety of deployers. Whether you need a single ATM machine for your business or you’re scaling a 100+ ATM machine route, we’ve got the solutions for your deployment situations:

  • New ATM machines when you need cutting-edge features and full warranties
  • Certified pre-owned refurbished ATM machines when you want factory-quality at aggressive pricing
  • Used ATM equipment when budget is the primary concern
  • Bitcoin/Crypto ATM equipment when you’re chasing the next profit opportunity

All with no games, no “gotchas”, and no mandatory tie-ins.

If you’re looking for a specific ATM equipment model, we can source almost any ATM, and we’ll match or beat most written quotes!

Questions about our ATM machines or ATM equipment? Call us directly—real people answer the phone. We look forward to hearing from you today!

Why Customer Convenience Matters: The Case for On-Site ATMs

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On-site ATMs aren’t just “nice to have”. In today’s on-demand economy, they’re a competitive advantage. From easy payments to quick service, consumers increasingly choose businesses that make their lives smoother. One highly effective way to enhance convenience that is often overlooked is by offering on-site ATM access.

Whether you operate a retail store, restaurant, bar, event venue, or service-based business, installing an on-site ATM can improve the customer experience while also generating additional revenue. Customer convenience matters, and on-site ATMs continue to play a critical role.

Convenience Drives Customer Decisions

Customers expect immediate access to what they need, when they need it. While digital payments have grown, cash remains essential for many everyday transactions, especially tips, small purchases, and cash-only services.

When customers don’t have easy access to cash, they have to make certain decisions. They may leave your location to find an ATM elsewhere. They might have to reduce how much they spend. Or, they may choose a competitor that offers more convenience.

An on-site ATM removes this friction entirely, keeping customers engaged and spending within your business.

On-Site ATMs Increase Dwell Time and Spending

The longer customers stay on your premises, the more likely they are to spend money. An on-site ATM keeps customers from leaving mid-visit, encourages impulse purchases, and supports higher ticket totals, especially in cash-heavy environments.

Bars, nightclubs, dispensaries, festivals, and entertainment venues see this effect most clearly. But any business that benefits from discretionary spending can see similar results.

Supporting Cash-Preferred and Underbanked Customers

Not all customers rely on credit cards or mobile wallets. Many still prefer or even depend on cash due to budgeting habits, privacy concerns, or limited access to traditional banking.

By offering an ATM on-site, you make your business more accessible and inclusive, ensuring you don’t unintentionally exclude customers who prefer or require cash.

A Revenue Stream with Minimal Effort

Beyond convenience, on-site ATMs can be profitable. Depending on your setup, benefits may include surcharge revenue, lease or placement fees from ATM operators, and increased sales volume from retained customers.

Modern ATMs require minimal maintenance, and many placement models allow business owners to earn passive income without managing the machine themselves. ATMDepot.com’s placement program, for example, can put you in touch with a well-established and certified independent ATM deployer (IAD) who can install and operate an ATM in your store for free!

Reliability Matters More as Bank Branches Decline

As traditional bank branches continue to close, access to cash is becoming less centralized. Customers increasingly rely on retail-based ATMs, event and venue ATMs, and neighborhood and convenience-store machines.

Businesses that provide on-site ATM access help fill this growing gap, positioning themselves as reliable, customer-first destinations in their communities.

Enhancing the Overall Customer Experience

Customer convenience isn’t limited to one feature. It’s about the overall experience. An on-site ATM complements other service improvements by reducing checkout delays, preventing payment-related frustration, and making transactions smoother and faster.

When customers feel a business anticipates their needs, trust and loyalty follow.

Two Common Routes to On-Site ATMs

Convinced that an on-site ATM could benefit you? Here’s what to do next:

Businesses considering an on-site ATM generally choose between buying an ATM outright or participating in an ATM placement program. Each option offers distinct advantages depending on your goals, budget, and level of involvement.

Buying an ATM Outright

Purchasing an ATM gives you and your business full ownership and control over the machine and its operation. This results in certain unique benefits.

First, this route offers higher revenue potential. The more operational duties you share with another party, the more surcharge revenue you have to share. So if you handle all or at least most of the ATM operations, you earn the bulk of the surcharge income.

If you own the machine, you also retain complete control. This means that you set the surcharge fee amount, customize the branding, and operate on a schedule that works for you.

However, going this route means you have to cover the upfront costs for the machine, installation, and cash loading. Maintenance, repairs, and compliance also become your responsibility. And when you are off-site, cash management and monitoring fall on you, too.

This option is often best for high-volume locations or businesses that want maximum control and are comfortable managing the ATM as part of their operations. So if you can afford the upfront costs and have the time required to operate the machine, there is nothing wrong with purchasing and operating your own on-site ATM!

Participating in an ATM Placement Program

An ATM placement program allows a third-party operator to install and manage an ATM at your location.

In this arrangement, there is no upfront cost. The operator provides the ATM, installation, cash, and setup.

Management is hands-off, too. Maintenance, compliance, monitoring, and cash loading are handled for you by the IAD.

You don’t earn as much surcharge revenue from a placement program, but it can be a predictable source of some income (on top of the extra spending in your store). In some placement program arrangements, businesses can receive a monthly fee or per-transaction revenue share.

Drawbacks include lower overall revenue compared to owning the ATM and less control over surcharge pricing and machine branding. However, contract terms will vary by provider. It is important to negotiate a partnership that meets the needs of both sides documented in an ATM placement agreement or contract. 

Never enter into an agreement that you aren’t comfortable with and remember that you have leverage: ATM owners need locations to operate from.

Placement programs are ideal for businesses that want to offer customer convenience without operational complexity or capital investment. If you want to offer your customers the convenience on-site ATMs provide and increase foot traffic and spending in your business but don’t want to bother with the daily operations, a placement program is perfect for you.

Convenience Is a Strategic Advantage—On-Site ATMs Can Help

On-site ATMs are more than just cash machines. They can be a strategic tool for improving customer satisfaction, increasing revenue, and staying competitive in a convenience-driven marketplace.

When considering which route works best for adding an on-site ATM to your business, the right choice depends on a few factors. Think about how much transaction volume you can expect, how much capital you have available, and your own willingness to manage cash and equipment operations.

Both options improve customer convenience and help keep spending on-site. The difference lies in how much control and responsibility you want to assume.

For businesses looking to enhance the customer experience while creating new income opportunities, the case for on-site ATMs is clear: when customers have easier access to cash, everyone benefits. For more information about buying an ATM machine or partnering with an IAD, check out our ATM business guide for store owners and get started today!

ATM Security Facts: Debunking the “Montana Moose Heist”

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Knowing ATM security facts is important. Not only should ATM owners feel confident that their assets and customers are safe from thefts and attacks, but the public should know just how dumb it is to try to breach an ATM.

Earlier this month, a story about a moose breaking open an ATM machine and a bystander making it rich went viral. As funny as it sounds, it never actually happened. 

This post has everything it needs to attain viral status. In a world plagued by AI deepfakes and disinformation, it’s important to recognize the signs of fake news so that you can stay informed. Knowing some basic ATM security facts can help debunk this story, too. We understand the general public doesn’t know all of the ins and outs of ATM equipment. We wrote this article to help!

The Formula for a Viral Post

On November 2, 2025, StoryTime posted a fictional story titled “Moose Millionaire Made Overnight” accompanied by a likely fake image made to look like security footage. According to the post, a moose charged into an outdoor ATM, cash flew everywhere, and an opportunistic passerby made off with thousands in loose bills. Montanans joked that it was “the most Montana heist ever”—and people actually believed it. 

How can the authenticity of a story like this be verified? When researching the story, the lack of specific details, reports, and authority is telling. There are no police reports, no local news coverage, and no verified footage from any security camera. 

These days, it’s easy to create a “news clip” using AI-generated imagery and a fake article template. Add a heartwarming animal, a sensational dollar amount, and you’ve got a perfect storm of viral humor and misinformation.

People love the absurd, and a moose robbing an ATM hits all the right notes: wild, funny, and just plausible enough for a quick share. But the “Montana Moose Heist” also highlights a real issue for the ATM industry—public misunderstanding about ATM security.

5 ATM Security Facts

Fact #1: Modern ATMs Are Fortresses

The idea that an animal, or even a human without specialized tools, could physically breach an ATM is wildly unrealistic. Most ATMs are built from reinforced steel, feature vault doors with time-delay locks, and are bolted into concrete foundations. Even if a moose did charge, it would hit a wall of metal tougher than most vehicle bumpers.

Fact #2: Cash Cassettes Are Mini Vaults

Cash inside an ATM isn’t loose or easily accessible. Bills are stored in locked, removable cassettes, and every transaction or access attempt is digitally logged. In other words, you can’t just knock an ATM around and expect free money to fly out. Leave that to Hollywood and viral videos.

Fact #3: Every Access Point Is Monitored

Nearly all modern ATMs feature 24/7 video surveillance, both internal and external. Many are also equipped with GPS-tracked sensors, tamper alerts, and remote shutdown capabilities. If anything suspicious occurs, operators are alerted instantly, often before anyone on-site even notices a problem. So if the viral faked security image were real, there would be verifiable video evidence, too.

Fact #4: Real Threats Do Not Create Spectacle

While the “moose heist” makes for a great laugh, the real risks to ATMs come from skimming devices and malware. These threats aren’t funny. They are malicious attempts to create equipment malfunctions and steal customer data. 

While steel walls and high-tech locks secure ATMs physically, independent ATM deployers (IADs) and other business owners also take steps to protect the machines internally. They conduct regular inspections for overlays or hidden cameras, install skimmer detection technology, and use remote monitoring software. Although an ATM may look unattended, it certainly isn’t unmonitored. ATM machines are also strategically placed in well-lit, high traffic areas to prevent tampering and other ATM-related crimes.

Fact #5: ATM Machines Are Typically Not Filled to Capacity

The viral claim that someone scooped up $200,000 in loose cash after a moose rammed an ATM is highly implausible. Most retail ATMs (gas stations, convenience stores, small locations) typically hold $10,000 to $20,000 in cash. Bank-owned or high-traffic location ATMs may be loaded with higher amounts. Figures can range from $50,000 to $200,000 for such machines. 

However, actual typical loaded cash amounts are well below $200K, especially at retail locations. ATM withdrawal trends are monitored and cash is strategically stocked to meet customer needs while minimizing liability. 

So, a claim of someone grabbing $200,000 in loose cash spilling out of an ATM would imply that the machine held at or above the top-end of its theoretical capacity and that all of that cash was suddenly accessible/unsecured—both of which are extremely unlikely. Using a figure like $200,000 to lend plausibility to the “moose heist” narrative is very much at the outer limits (or beyond) of real ATM cash loads, something that should be a red-flag for readers.

Stories like the “Montana Moose Heist” may seem like harmless fun, but misinformation can sometimes lead customers to question ATM reliability or safety. Furthermore, it can be dangerous for someone to think that they themselves could breach an ATM machine.

That’s why it’s important for ATM operators and IADs to be proactive in educating customers about ATM security facts. View these viral moments as teachable opportunities. 

Outrageous ATM Stories That Actually Happened

Don’t worry—we don’t want to ruin all the fun! While the Montana Moose Heist is 100% fiction, there are plenty of real-life ATM incidents that sound almost as unbelievable.

The ATM That Spat Out $100 Bills Instead of $10s

In 2019, a Bank of America ATM in Houston made local news when a software glitch caused it to dispense $100 bills instead of $10s. Word spread fast, and a crowd formed before police eventually shut it down. Amazingly, the bank allowed customers who benefited from the glitch to keep the extra cash. Talk about winning the lottery!

ATM…Robbed?…with a Backhoe

How fortified are ATM machines? In Chicago in 2022, thieves stole a backhoe from a construction site then drove it 20 miles to a Chase Bank ATM where they used it to pry the ATM from its foundation and load it onto a truck. Workers later came to remove money out of the ATM. After all of that, it wasn’t obvious whether any money was actually stolen from the ATM. Does that answer your question?

It’s Raining Cash

In November 2021, the door of an armored truck reportedly unexpectedly opened in California on the Interstate 5 freeway near San Diego. Drivers stopped their cars to pick up the cash that fell out. California Highway Patrol Officer Jim Bettencourt said there were “free-floating bills all over the freeway.”

More recently, in April 2025 in Niagara Falls, a Brinks guard was opening a Bank of America ATM when gusty winds caught the bills and scattered the money. The guard gathered as much as he could, but others in the vicinity grabbed some of the bills and ran. A similar event occurred during a delivery in February in Abilene, Texas. 

Unfortunately, this is not a “finders keepers” situation. Unlike the Houston customers who got to keep their extra cash, those who collected stray bills from ATM deliveries are expected to return the cash to the proper authorities or face criminal charges if identified. 

Offline Loopholes

In 2011, Sydney cash machines experienced a glitch caused by the machines going offline. The problem affected more than 40 Commonwealth Bank cash machines. Operating in stand-by mode, the machines could not identify the account balances of customers. So, in some cases, customers who had little or no money were able to withdraw large sums of cash.

In the approximate five and a half hours the glitch lasted, word got out and as many as 50 people stood in line at one particular machine. Unfortunately, those who withdrew more funds than they had in their account overdrew their account. Every transaction was recorded, and bank customers were contacted to pay back the overdrawn funds. 

However, an Australian bartender noticed a glitch that was not overdrawing his account. He withdrew and spent $1.6 million in 5 months. Dan Saunders noticed a delay in the early hours of the morning when the ATM machine went offline and disconnected from the bank. Transferring money between accounts during the offline hours, he could withdraw large sums of cash without the accounts appearing overdrawn. Saunders spent one year in prison and returned to work in the hospitality industry after 18-months on a community corrections order.

These stories prove that while moose may not be cracking ATMs open anytime soon, the real world of cash machines is never boring. From software hiccups to heist attempts, every incident underscores why vigilance, maintenance, and security tech are so essential for ATM operators and IADs.

The Importance of ATM Security Facts

It turns out, even in the age of digital security and advanced surveillance, the internet is still easier to fool than an ATM vault. No, a moose didn’t rob an ATM in Montana. But the buzz is a reminder that ATM security facts should always be top of mind.

Whether it’s a wildlife rumor or a real-world attack, your ATM’s best defense is a combination of strong hardware, vigilant monitoring, and informed operators. Because while viral videos may come and go, ATM security is no joke.

ATM Placement Services—Right for Your Business?

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ATM placement services can be a good way to attract more customers, enhance convenience, and boost profits. You could purchase a machine yourself and experience the same benefits, but do you have the time and energy for that? Free ATM placement services handle the hard work for you so that you can sit back and watch your customers take advantage of your new service offering.

If your business sees regular foot traffic—whether you run a convenience store, gas station, bar, salon, or small grocery—hosting an ATM could bring you consistent benefits with virtually no downside. Here’s how to know if an ATM placement is right for your business.

Do You Want to Increase Foot Traffic and Impulse Purchases?

When customers see an ATM on-site, they’re more likely to step inside. Even if they initially come just to withdraw cash, many end up making an unplanned purchase. According to a recent intercept survey by the public opinion company Creative Consumer Research, consumers go out of their way to use in-store ATMs. Seventy percent of respondents said they visited the store primarily to use the ATM, and 33% of ATM users made a purchase with nearly half using money they got from the ATM.

For example, a customer stopping for $40 might decide to grab a drink or snack on their way out. Over time, this can translate to meaningful increases in daily sales—especially for convenience-driven businesses.

Do You Want to Earn Passive Income Without Lifting a Finger?

Most ATM placement providers offer free installation, maintenance, and cash loading, meaning there’s no cost to you, the business owner. You simply provide the space and electricity.

In return, you can earn a commission on every transaction, creating a steady stream of passive income. The more your customers use the ATM, the more you earn, all without managing the machine yourself.

Do You Want to Enhance Customer Convenience?

Even in an increasingly digital world, many customers still prefer cash—especially for small purchases, tips, or cover charges. Having an ATM on-site saves customers a trip to the bank and keeps them spending in your location instead of leaving to find cash elsewhere. This small convenience can set you apart from competitors who don’t offer the same service.

Do You Want to Avoid Hassle and Risk?

Quality ATM placement services handle everything. They deliver, install, and set up the machine. They regularly stock the machine with cash. Maintenance and repairs are handled by the placement service, too. You also have the benefit of 24/7 customer support if you work with the right company.

That means you get all the benefits of having an ATM without the headaches of managing one yourself. It’s a truly hands-off partnership that adds value to your business.

Are You an Ideal Location for ATM Placement?

There are a few factors that can be used to determine whether a store or business is a strong candidate for an ATM. A strong candidate basically means that an ATM would do well, seeing at least a few transactions a day. 

The first criteria is consistent daily foot traffic. There needs to be enough people passing by the store or machine to increase the rate of users. The more people with access to and knowledge of the machine, the more successful it will be.

If many of your customers make cash purchases, you could be a strong candidate for ATM placement services. If someone is shopping at your location, wants to make a cash purchase, and sees an ATM, there is a greater chance they will use it. This makes cash-only businesses some of the strongest candidates. 

Businesses in locations with limited nearby access to bank ATMs have a greater need for ATM service. The farther customers have to travel for access to their accounts, the less convenient it becomes. So if your business is located where there is a gap in the market, you stand to enhance convenience as well as avoid sharing customers with other nearby competing locations.

Some of the most common examples of strong locations for ATM placement services include convenience stores, liquor stores, gas stations, bars, barber shops, nail salons, laundromats, and local restaurants. However, that doesn’t mean that you aren’t a candidate or can’t still place an ATM. It really boils down to the needs of your customers and passers by in your area.

Where Do You Start?

Are you willing to regularly fill the ATM with cash? 

Can you afford to take time out of running your business to fix an ATM error if one does occur? 

Do you want to spend time keeping the machine cleaned? 

Can you make sure it is always up-to-date with the latest software?

Do you have a few thousand dollars to spend on your own ATM equipment?

If you answer no to any of those questions above, we recommend ATM placement services. If you’re looking for an easy way to attract more customers, increase revenue, and improve service—all at no cost—ATM placement could be the perfect fit.

Partnering with a trusted ATM provider allows you to turn unused floor space into a profit-generating asset while making your business more convenient for your customers. ATMDepot makes it easy:

Simply send in your ATM Placement Request, and ATMDepot will search our repertoire of well-established and certified Independent ATM Deployers (IADs) for a representative of ours in your area. Then, once we find one, we’ll put you in touch. This IAD will be able to place an ATM in your store for free. In addition, they will assist you with the other ATM services you’d like provided, like filling the machine with cash and/or maintaining updates and cleanliness.

ATMDepot specializes in free ATM placement for high-traffic businesses. We handle everything—installation, service, and maintenance—so you can start earning more without doing more. Contact us today to see if your business qualifies for a no-cost ATM placement program.