Many machines still ran on outdated operating systems like Windows XP or Windows 7 , which have known vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit once they have physical access.
In 2022, law enforcement and security firms noted a shift in how these attacks were carried out, often involving a mix of heavy tools and specialized tech: Many machines still ran on outdated operating systems
These aren't solo crimes. Large, international rings often recruit "money mules" to stand at the machine and collect the cash while a remote technician triggers the "jackpot" via a smartphone. Protection and Prevention Protection and Prevention Tools like the Ploutus family
Tools like the Ploutus family are often used to override the machine's software. By bypassing bank authorizations, the malware sends a direct command through the XFS (eXtensions for Financial Services) layer—the software that physically tells the machine to move its gears and dispense bills. Why It Surged in 2022 Many machines still ran on outdated operating systems
Encrypting the internal drive prevents attackers from loading malware even if they reach the computer.