The Bank of Russia (Central Bank) recommended limiting ATM cash disbursement in order to fight the spread of the coronavirus.
Specifically, the Bank of Russia recommended waiting out before cash recirculation to make sure the virus on banknotes dies.
The Central Bank itself withdraws bills out of the circulation for up to 14 days. Other banks will have to keep the cash away for three to four days before recirculating. Until now, banknotes deposited by customers would be immediately available to others, RBC reports.
The Central Bank additionally issued guidelines regarding disinfecting ATMs. Bank employees who accept cash from customers are also advised to use masks and gloves.