In a bid to strengthen security measures, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has issued new directives to all commercial and microfinance banks, urging them to upgrade their security and surveillance operations within and around branch premises and ATMs. The central bank’s move is part of efforts to enhance public safety and assist law enforcement in addressing terrorism, fraud, and other criminal activities.
Banks have been advised to update their internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to include specific guidelines for installing Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras. These guidelines cover various aspects such as the placement of cameras, the minimum preservation period for visual records, and the required quality and resolution of cameras. The cameras should support 24/7 recording, ensuring round-the-clock surveillance.
In particular, CCTVs installed within ATM vestibules must be positioned to capture users’ activities, enabling both the banks and law enforcement agencies to conduct facial recognition if needed, especially in cases involving terrorism, fraud, or disputed transactions.
A notable change in the latest regulations is the revision of the minimum resolution standard for CCTV cameras, with banks now required to install cameras with at least five megapixels (MPs), instead of the previously mandated six MPs. This requirement extends to the installation of all necessary equipment, including storage devices and wiring.
To ensure compliance, the SBP has set a deadline of March 31, 2025, for the installation of the prescribed cameras at critical points within branch premises located in Tier 1 cities, as outlined in the Branch Licensing Policy, and in other high-risk areas. Banks are expected to define high-risk geographies and identify critical points in their updated SOPs for camera installation. These guidelines will also apply to all new branches and those undergoing renovations in 2024, provided CCTV procurement orders have not yet been placed.
Additionally, banks are encouraged to expedite the installation process across their entire branch networks at their discretion. The SBP has instructed banks to submit a detailed implementation plan to the relevant Banking Supervision Department to ensure compliance with the new regulatory instructions.
The revised rules come after feedback from various stakeholders, allowing for the phased installation of enhanced security measures within bank branch networks across the country.