U.S. DOJ Charges 54 in ATM Jackpotting Scheme Using Ploutus Malware
However, this time, the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) has taken a significant step in combating ATM jackpotting schemes. In a multi-million dollar conspiracy, 54 individuals have been indicted for their involvement in deploying malware named Ploutus to hack into automated teller machines (ATMs) across the U.S.
Indictment and Charges
Moreover, the indicted members are alleged to be part of Tren de Aragua (TdA), a Venezuelan gang designated a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. State Department. The group’s head, Hector Rusthenford Guerrero Flores, was sanctioned in July 2025 for his involvement in illicit activities.
Consequences of the Scheme
Consequently, if convicted, the defendants could face a maximum penalty of anywhere between 20 and 335 years in prison. The jackpotting operation is said to have relied on the TdA recruiting an unspecified number of individuals to deploy the malware across the nation.
Ploutus Malware and Its Effects
Meanwhile, the Ploutus malware was designed to issue unauthorized commands associated with the Cash Dispensing Module of the ATM in order to force currency withdrawals. The malware was also equipped to delete evidence of malware in an effort to conceal the deployment of the malware on the ATM.
Impact and Losses
In addition, a total of 1,529 jackpotting incidents have been recorded in the U.S. since 2021, with about $40.73 million lost to the international criminal network as of August 2025. Many millions of dollars were drained from ATM machines across the United States as a result of this conspiracy.
Conclusion
Therefore, the U.S. Department of Justice’s efforts to combat ATM jackpotting schemes are a significant step in protecting the financial security of citizens. The indictment of 54 individuals and the charges brought against them demonstrate the severity of the consequences for those involved in such activities.
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