Germany: Strike-proof ATMs at Frankfurter Sparkasse

May 7, 2025

Why does Frankfurter Sparkasse rely on a unique locking system, and what can cash-in-transit companies learn from this?

A reliable cash supply is essential as it is part of critical infrastructure – comparable to energy suppliers or public transport. Frankfurter Sparkasse has recognised this! To ensure the security and availability of its ATMs, it has introduced our innovative locking system PYLOCX®, which combines flexibility and traceability and is therefore ideally suited to the requirements of modern cash logistics.

PYLOCX® — A smart solution for critical infrastructure

Cash supply is part of critical infrastructure, just like energy suppliers or public transport. This makes it all the more important to avoid strikes or other interruptions in the supply of cash. Frankfurter Sparkasse therefore opted for our modern locking system PYLOCX®, which guarantees greater independence and security.

Back in 2012, banks in Germany were confronted with uncontrolled openings of ATMs. Frankfurter Sparkasse then sought an innovative solution. The PYLOCX® system consists of four components: the mobile keypad PYKEY®, a contact point, a control module and a lock. These elements work seamlessly together to maximise security and traceability. Each lock cylinder is individually assigned to the respective authorised user. This allows precise documentation of who had access to the ATMs and when.

Offline mode as a security feature

A major advantage of PYLOCX® is its ability to work offline. Instead of via the Internet, the access code can be requested by the administrator via mobile phone. This code is entered into the PYKEY®, which then communicates with the lock’s control module. After successful verification, the lock opens and the code expires immediately. Particularly important: central code management is located directly at Frankfurter Sparkasse, giving the bank full control over access rights at all times.

Flexibility for cash-in-transit companies

Thanks to PYLOCX®, Frankfurter Sparkasse remains independent of individual cash-in-transit companies. Access rights can be transferred to another service provider with just a few clicks if one provider fails. This guarantees an uninterrupted cash supply and Frankfurter Sparkasse remains secure even in the event of strikes or insolvency of a service provider.

Successful pilot project and economic advantages

The pilot project began in 2013 with an ATM in the Skyline Plaza shopping centre in Frankfurt. Following successful tests, over 200 ATMs have now been equipped with our PYLOCX® system. In addition to increased security, it also impresses with its cost efficiency, as it reduces logistics costs for cash transports.

Robust, vandal-proof and independent of external power supply

In addition to the security advantages, PYLOCX® significantly reduces operating costs. The PYKEY® has an integrated rechargeable battery that makes the system independent of external power supplies. This significantly minimises maintenance trips, for example to replace batteries – an advantage that is particularly noticeable with outdoor machines.

The system is also vandal-proof: the contact point where the PYKEY® is attached is made of robust steel and is embedded in the machine. This means there are no visible points of attack such as keyholes or openings, which effectively prevents tampering.

With the PYLOCX® system, STUV offers a modern and secure solution for cash logistics that not only takes ATM protection to a new level, but also impresses with its flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Frankfurter Sparkasse is thus demonstrating how innovative technology can successfully meet the challenges of cash supply.

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