Fifth Third Bank Strengthens Security With Security Operations Center
Recently, Fifth Third Bank announced a partnership with March Networks to strengthen it's security system. Fifth Third Bank has more than 1,500 branches and approximately 80 high-rise, high-density facilities across the United States. Referred to internally as financial centers, these branches serve as the primary touchpoint for customers and communities.
At the heart of Fifth Third’s security strategy is a centralized Security Operations Center that operates around the clock. It functions as the bank’s internal emergency response center, giving employees a direct line to live support when safety or security concerns arise.
“Our Security Operations Center is the 911 center for Fifth Third,” said Darrin Steinmann, Vice President and Director of Corporate Security Investigations, Security Operations, and Security Strategy. “When employees call with a concern, we respond in real time with video, alarms, and coordination with law enforcement.”
To support this mission across a rapidly expanding footprint, Fifth Third standardized on March Networks video surveillance and enterprise management software. Today, March Networks supports more than 1,500 financial centers and 80 high-rise and high-density locations. The deployment includes more than 30,000 cameras and over 1,100 recorders, all centrally managed through a single platform.
The camera environment is purpose-built for banking. It includes EL20 multi- sensor cameras for broad coverage, 360-degree cameras to eliminate blind spots, dome cameras for teller and lobby areas, and dedicated ATM cameras designed to capture clear facial images.
“When you are responsible for security across this many locations, you need technology you do not have to worry about,” said Jason Walter, Senior Security Strategy Manager at Fifth Third Bank. “March Networks gives us that confidence.”
One of Fifth Third’s most impactful initiatives has been the rollout of exterior cameras across its branch network. Now approximately 60 percent complete, the program delivers full perimeter visibility around financial centers. That visibility has changed how the bank responds when incidents move beyond the branch interior. Teams can track suspects, identify vehicles, and share critical information with law enforcement in real time.
“Our exterior cameras have changed the game,” Walter said. “They help protect our people, support law enforcement, and have driven apprehension rates above 80 percent.”
Faster arrests also improve cash recovery and reduce long-term financial impact. Beyond investigations, exterior cameras support day-to-day operations. Property management teams use video to assess storm damage, snow removal, vandalism, and hurricane impacts without sending staff into unsafe conditions. Legal, retail, and fraud teams rely on video to verify incidents and resolve claims more efficiently.
Security at Fifth Third extends beyond the branch itself. Exterior coverage has strengthened the bank’s role as a community partner, providing video that supports law enforcement investigations for incidents occurring on or near bank property. From pedestrian accidents to crimes in adjacent areas, Fifth Third regularly assists local agencies through lawful video requests.
The result is faster resolution, safer neighborhoods, and a visible commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen in every market Fifth Third serves.
Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!
