IN the U.S., cybercriminals are exploiting Internet-exposed Automatic Tank Gauge (ATG) systems at gas stations, prompting warnings from multiple federal agencies. These ATGs, critical for monitoring fuel and chemical storage, have been found vulnerable, particularly following a potential Iran-linked campaign targeting them. A joint notice from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and other agencies encourages organizations to secure their ATGs.
Notably, there are 909 exposed ATGs in the U.S., a decrease from nearly 6,000 a decade ago. However, many are old and unpatched, raising risks of manipulation and disruption. Recommendations include removing ATGs from the Internet, enhancing credential security, and employing unhackable designs to prevent attacks.