What steps should be taken if a teller encounters suspicious activity?

When a teller encounters suspicious activity, the appropriate response involves documenting observations and following established reporting protocols. This step is crucial because it ensures that any potentially illicit behavior is recorded accurately, providing a clear account of the events. Such documentation becomes essential for investigations by law enforcement or bank security teams, and it helps in establishing patterns of behavior that may warrant further scrutiny.

Following reporting protocols means that tellers are acting within the guidelines set by the institution, which is designed to comply with legal and regulatory requirements. This structured approach mitigates risks and protects both the bank and its customers. In contrast, directly confronting the customer or informing others can escalate the situation, while ignoring it undermines the responsibility to report potential criminal activity.