What is ATM jackpotting?

ATM jackpotting is a method where threat actors exploit vulnerabilities and deploy malware to dispense cash from ATMs without legitimate transactions.

How much money has been lost to ATM jackpotting?

Since 2020, over 1,900 incidents have been reported, with more than $20 million in losses occurring in 2025 alone.

What is Ploutus malware?

Ploutus is a type of malware that gives threat actors direct control over an ATM, allowing them to trigger cash withdrawals by attacking the machine itself.

Home / Crime and Justice / ATM Jackpotting Surges: Millions Lost to Malware

ATM Jackpotting Surges: Millions Lost to Malware

20 Feb

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Summary

ATM jackpotting, using malware, has dramatically increased.
Over 700 incidents in 2025 alone led to $20 million in losses.
Ploutus malware controls ATMs, not customer accounts for quick cash.

ATM Jackpotting Surges: Millions Lost to Malware

The FBI has issued a stark warning regarding a significant surge in ATM jackpotting incidents across the United States. This sophisticated form of theft involves threat actors exploiting both physical vulnerabilities and digital malware to dispense cash without valid transactions.

In 2025 alone, over 700 reported jackpotting incidents resulted in staggering losses exceeding $20 million. A notable malware, identified as 'Ploutus,' plays a crucial role in these operations. This malicious software grants cybercriminals complete control over the ATM's functions.

Ploutus specifically targets the ATM's operational software, bypassing customer account security entirely. This allows for swift cash-out operations, often completed within minutes and frequently going undetected until after the funds have been stolen.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.