ATM viruses

[chushpan]

ATM viruses (or ATM malware) are specialized programs designed to attack ATMs in order to steal money or data. These viruses can be introduced through vulnerabilities in the ATM software, physical access to the device, or attacks on the network to which the ATM is connected. Let's take a closer look at how such viruses work, their types, and methods of protection.

1. How do viruses get into an ATM?​

Malware can be installed on an ATM in several ways:

a) Via USB drives​

• Criminals gain physical access to an ATM and connect an infected USB drive.
• The virus is automatically launched when the device is connected.

b) Via the network​

• If the ATM is connected to a network (such as the Internet or an internal banking network), attackers can exploit vulnerabilities to launch a remote attack.
• Example: exploitation of vulnerabilities in the ATM operating system (often Windows XP or Windows 7 is used).

c) Through infected software​

• Attackers can replace the original ATM software with an infected version.
• This can happen through compromise of servers that update ATM software.

d) Through social engineering​

• Sometimes criminals use bank employees to gain access to an ATM. For example, by sending phishing emails with malicious links.

2. How do ATM viruses work?​

ATM viruses can perform different tasks depending on their purpose. Here are the main functions:

a) Stealing money​

• Malware can cause an ATM to dispense cash without authorization.
• Example: Ploutus , a program that is activated via SMS messages or a physical keyboard connected to an ATM.

b) Collection of map data​

• Viruses can intercept data from cards inserted into an ATM (card number, PIN code).
• This data is then passed on to attackers to create clones of the cards.

c) Blocking the ATM​

• Some viruses block the operation of the ATM in order to cause panic among users.
• Example: Ransomware , a program that demands a ransom to restore the device's functionality.

d) Remote control​

• Malware can give attackers remote access to the ATM, allowing them to control the device from anywhere in the world.

3. Examples of known ATM viruses​

a) Ploutus​

• One of the most famous viruses for ATMs.
• Designed to attack ATMs running Windows.
• Activated via external devices (eg keyboard or telephone).
• Forces the ATM to dispense all cash.

b) Tyupkin​

• This virus infects ATMs through physical access.
• Criminals gain access to the ATM at night and install malware.
• After that, they can use a special key to withdraw money.

c) GreenDispenser​

• This virus allows attackers to withdraw cash from an ATM via a mobile application.
• Can only be installed with physical access to the device.

d) ATMitch​

• Used to secretly withdraw money from ATMs.
• The virus runs in the background, minimizing the risk of detection.

4. Consequences of virus attacks on ATMs​

Malware attacks on ATMs can have serious consequences:

a) Financial losses​

• Banks lose large amounts of money due to cash theft.
• There may also be legal action from customers if their data has been compromised.

b) Reputational damage​

• Customers are losing trust in the bank, which could lead to a decrease in the number of users.

c) Operational failures​

• Attacks may cause ATMs to be temporarily disabled, causing inconvenience to customers.

d) Legal consequences​

• Banks could be fined by regulators for failing to adequately secure devices.

5. How do banks protect themselves from ATM viruses?​

a) Software update​

• Regularly update the operating system and ATM applications to eliminate vulnerabilities.

b) Data encryption​

• All data transmitted between the ATM and the server is encrypted to prevent interception.

c) Antivirus software​

• Installing specialized antivirus software to protect against malware.

d) Physical protection​

• Installation of cameras and sensors for monitoring ATMs.
• Using safes to protect internal components.

e) Disabling unnecessary ports​

• USB ports and other interfaces may be blocked or disabled to prevent the installation of malware.

f) Network monitoring​

• Banks use monitoring systems to detect suspicious activity on the network.

g) Employee training​

• Bank employees undergo training in recognizing threats and preventing attacks.

6. How can users protect themselves?​

a) Use trusted ATMs​

• Prefer ATMs located in secure locations (such as bank branches).

b) Check the device​

• Before using, check the ATM for signs of tampering (for example, attachments on the card reader or keyboard).

c) Protect your PIN code​

• Always cover the keyboard with your hand when entering your PIN.

d) Report suspicious activity​

• If the ATM behaves strangely (for example, does not issue a receipt or does not accept a card), report it to the bank.

7. Conclusion​

ATM viruses pose a serious threat to banks and their customers. Although modern technologies allow for significantly increased security of devices, cybercriminals continue to find new ways to attack. To protect against such threats, it is important to combine technical measures (such as encryption and antiviruses) with physical security and employee training.

Be vigilant and take precautions!

 

[Cloned Boy]

ATM Viruses: How They Work and What You Need to Know​

ATM viruses are specialized malicious software (malware) designed to hack into ATMs to steal money or obtain confidential information. These viruses can be used for "jackpotting" (issuing cash without authorization) or to collect bank card data.

Main types of attacks on ATMs​

1. Jackpotting:
   • This is an attack in which an ATM is forced to dispense cash without authorization. For example, researcher Brian Krebs reported that such attacks often target Diebold Opteva 500 and 700 ATMs, which are typically used in offline locations.
2. Collecting card data (Skimming):
   • Some viruses can be used to steal data from the magnetic strip of a card or the PIN codes entered by users. This data is then used to create counterfeit cards or for online fraud.
3. Remote control:
   • Malware can be installed on an ATM via physical access (e.g., via a USB port) or via the network. Once installed, attackers can remotely control the ATM.

Examples of ATM malware​

1. Zeus:
   • One of the most famous banking viruses used to steal data and funds. In 2010, it was responsible for 44% of all banking malware attacks.
2. Tiny Banker (Tinba):
   • This Trojan was first discovered in 2012. Its source code was leaked online, allowing attackers to modify it and make it more difficult to detect.

How ATMs are protected​

1. Software update:
   • ATM manufacturers regularly release updates to fix vulnerabilities.
2. Physical protection:
   • Restrict access to USB ports and other interfaces that can be used to install malware.
3. Network monitoring:
   • Using intrusion detection systems to monitor suspicious activity in an ATM network.
4. Data encryption:
   • Encryption of data transmitted between the ATM and the bank server to prevent interception.

Conclusion​

ATM viruses pose a serious threat to financial institutions. They exploit both physical and network vulnerabilities to steal money and data. To protect against such attacks, it is important to regularly update software, use encryption, and implement strict security measures.