EDINBURGH, Scotland—The European ATM Security Team (EAST) is warning that the use of malware against ATMs is growing, with at least 20 such incidents reported by a single unnamed ATM deployer in Europe.
EAST reported that the newest developments follow what are often called “jackpotting” attacks against ATMs in Eastern Europe and Russia. Jackpotting malware enables criminals to quickly drain ATMs of cash. EAST is urging ATM deployers to take defensive steps, including enhancing physical security of machines (considered to be the main issue with malware), updating operating systems, and working with manufacturers to address any software vulnerabilities.
EAST said that new anti-skimming technologies and enhancements to payment cards has made skimming less profitable, which has led hackers to turn to ATM malware. EAST said that two types of ATM malware attacks have been identified, both with the ability to compromise Windows-based ATMs.