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Automatic Teller Machine Robberies: Theories Of Liability, Joan Miles

Fordham Urban Law Journal

This student note examines theories of liability arising from robberies and assaults at ATMs (automated teller machines). The author draws from tort law the principles of landowner liability for intentional, criminal acts of third parties that arise because of a landowner's failure to protect his or her tenants or customers. The author also examines recent legislation, the EFTA (electronic funds transfer act) to see if ATM robberies can be successfully categorized as 'unauthorized transfers' from banks. The author describes possible defenses for the banks based on the location and type of ATM that is robbed, and finally concludes that because …