Strengthening ATM Protection Against Emerging Threats

ATM jackpotting attacks continue to evolve, targeting vulnerabilities in both physical hardware and internal system configurations. To help financial institutions stay ahead of these threats, Hyosung Americas has issued a new security recommendation designed to further protect ATM fleets from unauthorized access and exploitation.

As a long-standing provider of ATM deployment and support services, Wittenbach is sharing this important guidance so customers can take proactive steps to strengthen system security.

Why This Update Matters

One common technique used in jackpotting attacks involves accessing unused PCI expansion slots within the ATM PC. These open interfaces can provide attackers with a pathway to manipulate system operations or execute unauthorized commands.

Hyosung’s recommended BIOS configuration update addresses this vulnerability by disabling unused PCI expansion slots. By eliminating these access points, financial institutions can significantly reduce the attack surface and improve the overall security posture of their ATM fleet.

This update represents a simple but effective measure in the ongoing effort to defend against increasingly sophisticated ATM threats.

Implementation Requirements

To ensure proper configuration and system integrity, the BIOS update must be performed by a Wittenbach-authorized technician.

Key implementation details include:

• Update duration: Approximately one hour per ATM
• Service rate: $180 per hour, including travel
• For institutions using ATM Managed Services, the update can often be performed remotely, eliminating travel charges while maintaining the standard hourly service fee

Our service team works closely with each organization to schedule updates in a way that minimizes operational disruption.

A Proactive Approach to ATM Security

Cyber and physical threats targeting financial institutions continue to change. Proactive maintenance and security updates remain one of the most effective ways to protect ATM infrastructure, customer trust, and operational uptime.

Wittenbach strongly encourages institutions to approve and schedule this BIOS update at their earliest convenience to ensure continued protection against emerging jackpotting techniques.

We appreciate the continued partnership of our customers and their commitment to maintaining secure, reliable ATM operations.

For assistance or scheduling support, please contact your Wittenbach representative.