In a significant case of cybercrime, five Venezuelan nationals have admitted to attempting ATM jackpotting attacks in Kansas. These individuals used malware to try to make ATMs dispense cash without any legitimate transactions.
Details of the ATM Attack Case
The case stemmed from an FBI investigation targeting ATM hacks in Wamego and Manhattan, Kansas, during December 2025. The U.S. Attorney, Ryan A. Kriegshauser, emphasized the need for banks to enhance security as such incidents are becoming more frequent across the United States.
Court records reveal that Luis Alberto Velasquez-Artigas, 27, Royder Adrian Figuera-Perez, 29, Javier Mejia Jr., 27, Gabriel Alexjandro Corales-Garcia, 33, and Italo Lizandro Corrales-Carrillo, 26, each pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank larceny.
Modus Operandi of the Hackers
The group allegedly traveled from Indiana to Kansas with the intent to target ATMs they believed were vulnerable to malware infiltration. Their plan involved physically accessing the machines to install malicious software that would enable them to remotely command the ATMs to dispense cash.
This method, known as jackpotting, differs from card skimming as it targets the ATM’s internal systems. The suspects’ attempt in Wamego failed, triggering an alarm and alerting law enforcement. Similarly, in Manhattan, their efforts did not succeed, and no money was obtained.
Increasing Threat and Security Recommendations
Surveillance footage played a crucial role in identifying the suspects, leading to their arrest shortly after the attempted thefts. A February 2026 FBI report highlighted a national increase in ATM jackpotting incidents, with over 1,900 cases since 2020. In 2025 alone, more than 700 incidents resulted in losses surpassing $20 million.
Kriegshauser urged financial institutions to invest in security measures to prevent unauthorized malware installations. The FBI’s Chris Ormerod warned that these attacks exploit ATM vulnerabilities, allowing criminals to steal cash without conducting legitimate transactions.
Velasquez-Artigas has been sentenced to nine months in prison, while the other defendants await sentencing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag prosecuted the case, with the FBI leading the investigation. Law enforcement and financial sectors are encouraged to remain vigilant and adopt comprehensive security protocols.
