Do Banks Still Use Dye Packs for Security?
Uncover the continued relevance and operational details of dye packs as a security measure in modern banking.
Many people wonder about the security tools banks use to protect assets. Among these tools, the dye pack stands out as a commonly recognized and often-discussed security measure. Public curiosity frequently revolves around whether these devices are still in use and how effective they are in deterring illicit activities. This article explores the current landscape of dye pack usage, their mechanical operation, and the practical consequences of their deployment.
Current Use of Dye Packs
Banks in the United States widely use dye packs as a standard security feature. Over 75 percent of banks incorporate these devices into their robbery prevention strategies. While technology has advanced, dye packs have also evolved, making them increasingly difficult for criminals to detect.
These devices appear virtually indistinguishable from regular money stacks, enhancing their effectiveness. Some institutions also employ GPS trackers disguised as money bundles, but dye packs remain a prevalent and integral part of bank security infrastructure. Their continued deployment underscores their value in deterring theft and aiding recovery efforts.
How Dye Packs Function
A dye pack is typically disguised within a stack of real currency, often $10 or $20 denominations, with the device hidden in the middle. It contains a pyrotechnic charge, indelible red dye (1-methylamino-anthraquinone), and sometimes tear gas. Modern dye packs are thin and flexible, making them difficult to identify by touch.
The device remains in “safe” mode on a magnetic plate at a teller’s station. During a robbery, a teller can discreetly slip a dye pack into the money bag. Once removed from the magnetic plate and passing through a bank exit, a radio transmitter near the door activates a receiver within the pack. This triggers a timer, usually set for ten seconds or longer, ensuring the pack detonates once the robber is a safe distance from the bank. The explosive reaction generates significant heat, reaching temperatures around 400 degrees Fahrenheit, which further discourages tampering.
Impact and Outcomes of Dye Pack Use
Upon activation, the dye pack releases a cloud of bright red dye and, if present, tear gas. This indelible dye permanently stains stolen currency, rendering it easily identifiable as illicit funds. The visible marking also extends to the robber’s clothing and skin, indicating their involvement.
The staining helps law enforcement identify suspects and visually links them to the robbery. Furthermore, the presence of tear gas can disorient or incapacitate a robber, increasing the likelihood of them abandoning stolen money. The primary purpose of these outcomes is to deter robberies by making stolen money unusable and increasing the probability of apprehension, ultimately aiding in the recovery of funds and the capture of criminals.