In a video shared by a Reddit user, a Punjab National Bank ATM in India recently displayed the popular smartphone game Hill Climb Racing instead of transaction options.
This unusual incidence was initially reported by a student at GJU University in Hisar, who posted a video showing the game running on the ATM screen.
While it may appear as a harmless prank, triggered discussions about potential vulnerabilities in India's ATM networks.
The incident occurred when a college student accessed the ATM only to discover it was playing Hill Climb Racing.
A video uploaded on social media depicted a queue of students waiting to play the game on the ATM, making it a source of fun.
One student remarked that this ATM had “seen many ups and downs,” referring to the nature of the game. However, security experts caution that this is not a funny matter.
Users believe the ATMs, which run Windows, were hacked using a strategy that included downloading an Android-based game on the ATM's interface.
This may have been accomplished using a process known as “flashing” an Android ROM, but it would be challenging due to ATMs' low memory.
While this attack resulted in a game display, it raises questions about what other nefarious actions could take place if hackers obtain access to ATM systems.
The most concerning part of this incident is the disclosure of flaws in ATM security.
If attackers break the system to display a game, they may be able to further manipulate the system to collect personal information, install skimmers, or gain control of transaction processes. Fortunately in this case, no financial impact was documented.
The user who shared the video also mentioned that during the break, students line up to play the game.
While it may have been amusing to some taking part, the possibility of more severe cyberattacks related to ATMs should not be ignored.