Law enforcement in Louisiana is cautioning everyone to use ATMs with extreme caution due to a recent increase in crimes.

I was introduced to the phrase "Jugging" when I was a Child, But apparently Criminals have changed up the term. The FBI explains this recent increase in crime below.

Jugging refers to a crime in which a suspect, or group of suspects, targets customers believed to have large amounts of cash. The perpetrators either rob customers while in the parking lot of a bank, credit union, or ATM or follow them to their next location.

After 21 reports of this crime were made in the first week of July alone, the FBI released a warning regarding jugging. Jugging is not limited to Louisiana. The nation is seeing a wildfire spread of this crime. For this reason, when visiting a bank or an ATM, the FBI and local law enforcement are requesting that the public be more mindful of their surroundings.

Getty Images
Getty Images
loading...

FBI Safety Tips to Avoid Jugging
-Be Aware of Your Surroundings.
-Report any suspicious activities immediately.
-Conceal Your Cash.
-Vary Your Routine.
-Drive Directly to Your Next Destination.
-Avoid Distractions.

Law enforcement asks that you contact the FBI with information regarding any recent jugging incidents. You can call the FBI: 1-800-CALL-FBI or click here to submit an anonymous tip.

Attempted ATM Robbery In Downtown Lufkin, Texas

Help identify these thieves that caused an estimated $83,000 in damages trying to get inside an ATM at Commerical Bank of Texas.

Gallery Credit: Dan Patrick