Home / Technology / FBI Warns: Hackers 'Jackpotting' ATMs for Millions
FBI Warns: Hackers 'Jackpotting' ATMs for Millions
23 Mar
Summary
- Hackers exploit outdated Windows systems to force ATMs to dispense cash.
- Nearly 1,900 jackpotting attacks reported since 2020, with losses over $20 million.
- While banks are primary targets, costs eventually impact consumers through fees.
Cybersecurity alerts from the FBI highlight a significant increase in ATM jackpotting attacks, a method where hackers force cash machines to dispense money on command. Since 2020, almost 1,900 incidents have been documented, with a substantial rise observed last year alone. Financial losses from these attacks have already surpassed $20 million in 2025.
These attacks often involve gaining physical access to ATMs, removing storage drives, and loading malware. Widely used malware strains like Ploutus override normal transaction processes by targeting ATM software. A key vulnerability exploited is the use of aging operating systems, such as Windows 7, on many ATMs, which remain susceptible to known exploits.
While these jackpotting attacks directly impact financial institutions rather than individual consumers, the costs are indirectly borne by the public through higher fees and service charges. Consumers can protect themselves by using ATMs in well-lit, busy areas, stopping use if a machine malfunctions, and checking for tampering. Enabling transaction alerts and using cardless access options further enhance security.
