Any thoughts on "self-service" safe deposit boxes?

Barry

My bank is converting their safe deposit boxes over to self-service. What that means is there is one key access (the box owner's) and no sign in . The vault is open during the day for anyone to go into their boxes. They offer an additional $10 off the yearly rental for self-service. They also offer the option of continuing the status quo with a card to sign for access and bank official needing to insert a second key to open and close the box. These boxes are in the same vault.
Anyone think this compromises safety, both in terms of no ID required, only one key, and public access to the vault? Sure makes it easier for an estate to access a box. Comments?

Bochiman

I've been doing this for almost a year now.
Actually, I like it. I did wonder about the privacy since they have 2 small rooms for you to go to after getting your goodies out of the box, but you have to walk through room #1 to get to room #2.

I always go to room #2, just in case.

Hasn't been a problem in the year I've done it. I do have to do a palm scan to get in (while entering my box# and code). Then I use my key.

relayer

Sounds good. I'd use it if my bank had them

ROBBItheOKIE

Yea sounds good the coin shop I used to go to before he retired had this service I liked it since he retired and I had to switch to a bank safety deposit box I wish they had the same thing but they don't so yea I would like it alot.

DJC

I prefer the security of signing in, and having a bank staffer escort you in and out. Just don't like the idea of anyone being able to wander around the vaults unescorted.

relayer

If I had one of those the first thing I would do is take the bank ID and box number off the key tag I keep at home.

That would be a double blow - first they break into your house then take your key and open your box

I would like the easy access for myself, but may have nightmares about a locksmith going in one day

topstuf

291fifth

Bad idea. Now you have to make special arrangements to protect your safe deposit box key. The service goes down, down, down...and the fees go up, up, up!

topstuf

PerryHall

Sounds like a locker in a bus station and about as secure.

mgoodm3

Nice idea, but I would prefer the security option.

mozin

I can assure you that if my bank starts the self service as you describe I will immediately move out all my boxes. Very bad idea.

Bochiman

Ya know, it isn't as bad as I think a lot of you are thinking.

First, there are cameras everywhere.

2nd, it is still in the bank. I am not worried about the "security" portion.

3rd, it is more convenient. Sometimes, convenience makes for a bad result. In this case, it worked out fine.
I like it much better than before. As I mentioned, I have to do a handscan, enter my box# + another number, then go in and use my key.

Anything mentioned below as a negative could already be done now. And, nowhere on the key, or holder, does it say the bank (not the bank name nor branch).
In my old bank, the signature meant nothing as it was not really paid attention to. With this method, someone has to cut off my hand first and all the tellers call me by name when I enter so good luck at that.

mgoodm3

<< <i>Ya know, it isn't as bad as I think a lot of you are thinking.

First, there are cameras everywhere.

2nd, it is still in the bank. I am not worried about the "security" portion.

3rd, it is more convenient. Sometimes, convenience makes for a bad result. In this case, it worked out fine.
I like it much better than before. As I mentioned, I have to do a handscan, enter my box# + another number, then go in and use my key.

Anything mentioned below as a negative could already be done now. And, nowhere on the key, or holder, does it say the bank (not the bank name nor branch).
In my old bank, the signature meant nothing as it was not really paid attention to. With this method, someone has to cut off my hand first and all the tellers call me by name when I enter so good luck at that. >>




Well, that's fine then. I thought they were referring to walk in if you gotta key you're golden system.

K6AZ

No way. I want two keys to open my boxes. I don't like this idea at all.

oreville

My bank just converted to a eyeball scan security feature PLUS personal escorting to your box.

This way no one can get into my box unless they rip my eyes out.

GAT

There was a company in Santa Ana, Orange County, California called the Swiss Vaults, about 20 years ago, that had the same arrangement, that went belly up. When the box holders opened their boxes there was nothing left, so much for that crazy idea.

Bochiman

People seem to think this is like "Mailbox etc" or something.
It isn't.

But, anyway, it isn't worth arguing about. There are always those that see things as "mostly empty" even when they can't see the glass.
I have it, I use it, I feel secure with the security measures in place. So, I have no problems.

If you have a problem with it, don't use it. You just may end up having to find another bank soon though, or at least, a much older branch. I think most of the newly built banks will start doing this.

Btw...another reason I prefer this over 2 keyed systems.....my box is heavy. I don't need ANYONE else getting an idea of what may be in my box.

Barry

<< <i>Well, that's fine then. I thought they were referring to walk in if you gotta key you're golden system. >>


It's just walk right in at my bank. No scans, etc.

oreville

Barry:

<< <i>It's just walk right in at my bank. No scans, etc. >>



I don't blame you for not wanting a scan. You are just an eyeball anyway.

FatMan

I can never remember my box numbers. I need someone to help me.

Coinhusker1

<< <i>My bank just converted to a eyeball scan security feature PLUS personal escorting to your box.

This way no one can get into my box unless they rip my eyes out. >>



Did you see the movie "Minority Report"?