The Biggest Security Breaches In History

Security is a serious business, but throughout history, there have been some rather impressive examples of protective systems being breached by ingenious and nefarious criminals. Here is a quick overview of some of the biggest security breaches in history:

 

Dunbar Armored Heist, 1997

The theft of $18.9 million (£12.2 million), which was part of an intricately planned heist of an armored car depot in the US, is one of the most significant and extraordinary robberies in living memory.

It was made possible thanks to the help of an insider, who was able to take extensive photographs of the building. This information helped the criminals to move along routes that would not expose them to the scrutiny of the security cameras while they loaded the stolen cash onto a rented truck.

Floor plans and remote headsets allowed the team to coordinate effectively, although a rogue piece of their vehicle was left at the scene, which ultimately gave them away.

 

Osama Bin Laden Costume Royal Break-In, 2003

Perhaps the most bizarre security breach to have affected the British Royal Family occurred during the 21st birthday celebrations being held at Windsor Castle for Prince William.

So-called ‘comedy terrorist’ Aaron Barschak was able to not only get into the party without being stopped but also achieve this while dressed as Osama Bin Laden, who was at the time a major threat to national security.

Despite activating seven alarms, Mr. Barschak did not get stopped by police or security until he was deep into the party.

 

Bank of Ireland Robbery, 2009

The €7.6 million (£6 million) that was taken during a violent robbery at the Bank of Ireland’s Dublin branch was one of the biggest hauls ever taken by criminals on the emerald isle.

The robbery involved the thieves kidnapping the girlfriend of bank worker Shane Travers and then using physical force to coerce him into aiding their robbery. Predictably, the gang also threatened Travers’ partner in the process.

While police eventually managed to arrest seven people and recover about a quarter of the cash, the brutal nature of the crime and the apparent ease with which Travers was able to take the money to give to his tormentors caused real questions about the state of security in Ireland’s banking system. Government officials believe that it had been made too easy for criminals to exploit a single employee in order to obtain cash.