ARLINGTON, Texas (July 17, 2025) — The Numismatic Crime Information Center (NCIC) is alerting consumers and coin dealers nationwide to an alarming uptick in “Bank Jugging” crimes. This surge has been flagged by the FBI, which recently issued warnings about increased incidents across the country.
What Is Bank Jugging?
Bank Jugging is a crime in which suspects watch customers entering and exiting banks, credit unions, or other financial institutions. These criminals look for customers carrying cash envelopes, coin bags, or bank deposits. Once a target is identified, perpetrators follow them—often in different vehicles—to their next destination, such as home, work, or another errand. The suspects then attempt to break into the victim’s vehicle or execute an armed robbery to steal the money.
FBI Notice of Rising Threat
According to the FBI, Bank Jugging offenses have risen sharply over the past year. The crimes are no longer isolated to specific regions—reports now span urban, suburban, and rural communities. In many cases, victims are followed for several miles before being robbed near their destination. The agency urges vigilance and immediate reporting of any suspicious behavior around financial institutions.
Recent Incident Highlights Severity of Threat
“A Houston, Texas collector was a recent victim of bank jugging which resulted in the loss of over $70,000 in rare coins,” said Doug Davis, Founder and President of the Numismatic Crime Information Center. “The victim left his bank, made a quick stop, and upon returning to his vehicle two minutes later, he found a window smashed and a bag containing the coins was taken.”
Davis further emphasized, “Coin shop owners and their employees who are responsible for making bank deposits should be especially aware of the increase in bank jugging offenses.”
Why Numismatic and Cash-Based Transactions Are at Risk
The NCIC emphasizes that numismatists, coin dealers, and others who frequently handle cash or coin rolls are increasingly targeted. The sight of bank bags, briefcases, or notable deposit activity can mark someone as a high‑value target for Bank Jugging offenders.
“Criminals are adapting to watch for anyone who appears to be carrying substantial cash,” said Davis “Dealers and collectors—must be aware that they are at heightened risk.”
Safety Tips to Protect Yourself
- After leaving a bank, move to a well‑populated parking area before entering your vehicle.
- Travel in pairs when transporting cash deposits.
- Vary your travel routes and deposit times to avoid pattern recognition.
- Be alert to vehicles or individuals that seem to be following you. At the first sign, drive to a safe, public, or well-lit area.
- Call 9‑1‑1 immediately if you suspect you’re being followed.
- Report any suspicious surveillance or activity around financial institutions to local law enforcement and the NCIC at Doug@numismaticcrimes.org.
NCIC Support and Coordination
The NCIC is collaborating closely with the FBI, major coin dealers, and banking institutions to provide education, crime‑prevention workshops, and real‑time threat alerts. The center will continue monitoring trends and sharing updates with the numismatic community and the public.
