It's an unfortunate consequence, but worsening economic conditions usually lead to a rise in crime. To no one's great surprise, New York City has seen a marked increase in bank heists: 265 so far, versus 177 by the same time last year.

Through September, 28 of Sovereign Bank's (SOV) 81 New York locations were ripped off. But the institution with the worst luck, on a per capita basis, has got to be Wachovia (WB). According to the Daily News, 10 of its 24 area branches have been hit. The city's police commissioner, Raymond Kelly, says bank lobbies are partly to blame because their friendly atmosphere is an invitation to crime.

As financial institutions struggle to ward off theft and maintain a warm atmosphere for customers, Minyanville asks: How can banks prevent further robberies?