Black Box Attack

Black Box Attack

ATM black box attack involve connecting unauthorized devices to ATMs bypassing security measures. Typically resulting in unauthorized access to cash. It is a type of cyber attack in which the attacker has little or no prior knowledge of the internal workings of the target cyber security system. In this article, discover the intricacies of how hackers execute ATM black box attacks, and delve into the ways Sepio Asset Risk Management’s commercial platform safeguards your hardware devices through unparalleled physical layer visibility, ensuring effective black box risk prevention.

Money flying out of the machine. The winners smiling. Most likely night-time. No, I’m not describing the Vegas Strip at peak time. I’m describing the ATM around the corner from where you are now. However, before you jump up from your seat to cash in on the thousands of dollars coming out of the machine, you should be warned that this is the result of ATM Black Box Attacks.

ATM Jackpotting Attacks allows hackers to, well, hit the jackpot. These attacks are common in Europe but pose a real threat to the rest of the world. Hackers execute these attacks using simple devices called ATM black box attacks. So, if you’re strapped for cash, read carefully because you’ll soon know exactly how to hit the jackpot. And you won’t need to travel to Vegas to do it.

Black Box Attack: Bypassing Security to Access Cash Dispensers

An ATM is made up of two main parts: the cabinet and the safe. The former is the main body, and holds the ATM computer, which is connected to all the other devices. Luckily for you, the cabinet is practically unprotected, making it easy to gain access. The latter is more secure and contains only the cash dispenser and cash acceptance module. Yes, the cash dispenser is the most important part in this whole operation. Thankfully you will only need access to the cash dispenser cable, which is located outside the safe, to successfully execute this attack.

By gaining access to the top box of the cash machine, you will be able to bypass the main board communications. And additionally, disconnect the physical dispenser from the ATM PC core. This is when you attach the periphery device (the black box) directly to the dispenser whereby you can initiate cash dispensing commands.

Black Box Attack Exposure
Positive Technologies 2018

The Silent and Lucrative ATM Black Box Attacks

The best part is that you will not leave a trace on the target’s payment terminal. As the attack relies on the outputs produced by the ATMs in response to your inputs. Furthermore, you can disable checks that verify legitimate access, as well as other cyber security mechanisms, to go undetected (ATM Cyber Security).

The perfect time to do this would be in your lunch break as this will only take you 10 minutes. This leaves more than enough time to treat yourself to a nice meal at Nobu, what with all that extra cash burning a hole in your pocket.

The icing on the cake when it comes to ATM black box attacks is that almost 70 per cent of ATMs are vulnerable to them. So that ATM you walk past everyday is most likely a great target (ATM Jackpotting).

If the Kardashians are making money from being famous, then you can make money in an unconventional way, too. Who’s got time for a 9-5 nowadays anyway?

Sepio’s Asset Risk Management Platform

Sepio’s patented technology provides a holistic approach to managing assets at the Physical Layer (Physical Layer and Sepio Explained), focusing on identifying and mitigating risks, especially concerning black box risks prevention.

Traditional cyber security solutions often lack this vital physical layer visibility, neglecting hardware security. This results in a network vulnerable to threats such as network implants and rogue devices operating within the physical layer. Moreover, it adeptly identifies counterfeit peripherals as authentic Human Interface Devices (HIDs).

Sepio leads in ensuring that IT, OT, IoT, and peripheral infrastructures not only receive protecting but also exhibit resilience against the developing world of black box attacks. This comprehensive approach is vital for organizations seeking to protect their hardware and data against increasingly nuanced and dangerous cyber threats.

See every known and shadow asset. Prioritize and mitigate risks.
Talk to an expert. It will help you understand how to use Sepio’s patented technology to gain control of your asset risks.

 

July 14th, 2020