Wincor Nixdorf is releasing a cryptographic device designed to prevent viruses from triggering unauthorised cash withdrawals at ATMs.
Wincor Nixdorf says switching ATMs from from private X.25 networks to Internet connections has resulted in an increased risk of viruses attacking cash machines.
The Scop (Secure Cash Out Procedure) module ensures that viruses do not trigger any non-permissible withdrawals within an ATM's control module, which is where the cash dispensing procedure kicks in. The system ensures comprehensive security checks in conjunction with a central point of authorisation.
In December last year, ATM manufacturer Diebold had to shut down a number of units running Windows XP Embedded after they were hit by the Nachi worm, which was written to exploit breaches created by the MSBlast, or Blaster worm.