Potential Security Threats from “First Amendment Auditors”

BankersOnline recently discussed challenges and risks financial institutions face when a “First Amendment Auditor” attempts to record video from inside or around a branch location or office. These “auditors” often invite confrontations with bank personnel, security, and police, and may edit the captured content to cast a negative perception of the bank or its employees (and generate a social media response enabling the video to go viral).

From customer privacy to employee safety, there are many considerations in preparing your staff to address these individuals without exacerbating these situations. NAQF agrees that these events can easily create tension, harassment, and reputational risk, and that being prepared with defined processes and periodic training will serve to protect the institution, its customers, and its employees from harm.

All businesses should consider this emerging threat and be prepared to respond in a way that avoids confrontation while mitigating the risk to its staff and customers.