FBI Sounds Alarm to Arizona ATM Users Over “Jackpotting”

The FBI is warning financial institutions in Arizona about a growing threat spreading throughout the United States: ATM Jackpotting.

ATM jackpotting, according to TheCyberExpress.com, is a relatively new form of criminal activity. It exploits vulnerable ATMs rather than casino floors. The FBI has intensified warnings, and banks in Arizona now need to take stock of their own risks to understand what this means and how to prevent costly attacks.

What Is ATM “Jackpotting”?

Since 2020, the FBI has tracked about 1,900 jackpotting incidents across the U.S. Last year alone, there were more than 700 attacks, causing over $20 million in losses.

Here’s what happens: criminals gain physical access to an ATM and install malware. Much of the illegal software has been traced back to the Ploutus family. The malware forces the machine to dispense cash on command.

READ ALSO: Arizona Police Issue Urgent Warning on Bank Jugging Scam

According to the FBI’s alerts, these schemes don’t target the machine itself or hack into customer accounts. In many cases, banks don’t detect the cash breach until after the money is gone.

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Why are Arizona Banks and Credit Unions Urged to Watch for Activity?

Given the national rise, Arizona banks and credit unions are being urged by the FBI to remain vigilent. It’s especially important because groups that commit these crimes often travel and strike where physical ATM security is weakest.

RELATED: Tips To Prevent Thieves From Targeting Your Car At Gas Stations

Attackers typically use generic keys, swap out ATM’s phyiscal hard drives, and exploit outdated software. Any unattended ATM could be at risk.

What Should Arizona Expect Moving Forward?

The FBI is recommending stronger physical protections for ATMs and advising banks and financial institutions to perform regular software updates and monitor the machines for any signs of tampering.

Jackpotting incidents are on the rise nationwide. As a customer, if anything or anyone looks suspicious, be sure to report it to your financial institution as soon as possible. The money you save may be your own.