Top News

Friends, as we all know that in today’s modern era, online payments have increased rapidly, but when they need cash, people use ATM machines, which is considered one of the most secure banking systems. A video going viral on social media claims that ATMs can be hacked using mobile apps, which has increased concern among users. Let’s know about this hacking

There has been no verified case of ATM hacking through mobile apps in India, but in countries like the US, cyber criminals have successfully targeted ATMs using an advanced technique called ‘ATM Jackpotting’. Let us know what it is and how it works.

What is ATM Jackpotting?

ATM Jackpotting is a type of cyber attack in which hackers install malicious software (malware) in the ATM to gain control over the cash withdrawal system.

Instead of taking authorization from the bank, the malware tricks the ATM into dispensing cash directly, allowing criminals to withdraw money without using a debit card or accessing the customer’s bank account.

How does ATM jackpotting work?

They get physical access (direct access) to the ATM machine.

Malware is installed in the operating system of the ATM.

Malware infects the software that controls the ATM hardware.

The ATM starts taking commands from hackers instead of the bank’s servers.

The machine dispenses cash without bank card, PIN or account verification.

How is malware installed on ATM?

Hard Drive Method: Hackers remove the ATM’s hard drive, connect it to another computer, install malware and put it back into the machine.

Drive Replacement Method: Criminals replace the original hard drive with an infected hard drive and restart the ATM, allowing the malware to take control.

Both methods require physical access to the ATM and typically cannot be performed remotely using a simple mobile app.

Does ATM jackpotting affect customers’ bank accounts?

The customer’s bank account is not hacked.

Debit card details are not stolen.

The attack happens directly on the ATM machine.

Cash is withdrawn directly from the ATM without authorization from the bank.

Can ATM really be hacked using mobile app? At present, there is no concrete evidence that an ATM can be remotely hacked and cash withdrawn using a simple mobile app.

Most cases of ATM jackpotting involve:

Physical access to the ATM (i.e. going close to the machine and touching it).

Special type of malware.

Technical information.

Tampering with the internal hardware or software of the ATM.

Therefore, if someone claims that an ATM can be hacked using only a mobile app, then it should not be trusted unless there is solid evidence for it.