Kearney Police Department, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
KEARNEY — The Kearney Police Department is actively investigating a sophisticated financial crime involving an incident of ATM jackpotting that occurred early Monday morning.
At approximately 8:55 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 18, officers responded to the Trius Federal Credit Union, 2915 2nd Avenue to investigate a report of their ATM machines being vandalized and jackpotted over the weekend. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered that the ATM machines had been compromised and an undisclosed amount of cash was dispensed unlawfully.
Initial findings suggest the suspects used a form of malware or hardware device to override the machine’s security systems, causing it to “jackpot” and release currency. This type of cyber-enabled crime is rare but increasing in frequency across the U.S., often involving organized criminal networks with advanced technical capabilities.
The financial institution has verified that no card or customer information was compromised.
Investigators are actively following leads and are coordinating with the Federal Bureau of Investigations (F.B.I.), to identify the individuals responsible.
Anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in this area, or has information relevant to this case, is encouraged to contact Sergeant Benson at the Kearney Police Department at (308) 237-2104, Buffalo County Crimestoppers at (308) 237-3424, or by using the See Something Send Something App.
We encourage local financial institutions and ATM operators to review their cybersecurity measures and to report any anomalies or suspicious access to law enforcement immediately.
