Change is constant and reflected across all disciplines. Your ATMs are no exception to this truth. This can be remembered through the EMV migration; ATMs, point-of-sale networks and processors all certifying with one another to ensure utmost compatibility. For the cardholder, this simply translated to a new debit card. Though behind the scenes, it meant investing thousands of dollars to remain compliant with the latest regulations.
Today’s criminals continue to uncover loopholes in older systems, allowing them to capitalize on ATM weaknesses. Hackers target outdated equipment with the expectation that the frayed software is vulnerable and easily manipulable. However, to combat this issue, ATMs will soon have two new requirements that will serve as guards against these threats. The changes will enhance security for both the FI and consumers while concurrently limiting and preventing attacks.
The first of these advancements entails a new PIN pad. Effective January 2025, all machines must be upgraded with a new PIN pad solution to replace older, less effective models. By upgrading or installing this new device, it yields improved encryption and protection of sensitive cardholder data. Most ATMs do not currently have all the pieces in place for this, which means replacement hardware and/or software is also required to move forward with this initiative. The cost for this upgrade will vary depending on make, model and your current vendor. This includes expenses for specific hardware, software, and service visits to complete the upgrade.
The second development, coming early 2026, is the upgrade to the ATM operating systems from Windows 10 to Windows 11. This upgrade will be a larger expense for your institution. An estimated cost of $7k-$15k per ATM is predicted for this latest Windows installment. Combined, the PIN pad and Windows upgrades will have significant impact to your ATM & ITM budget.
It is also important to recognize that not all institutions have a budget for either of these coming requirements. Furthermore, capturing all ATM costs is difficult. Many vendors have their hands in your ATM operations, and the vendor contracts may fall under different departments’ purview. Consequently, this leads to notable difficulty in calculating the total cost of your program.
Of course, if your fleet is outsourced to Dolphin Debit, you avoid accruing any further costs for these required upgrades and compliance enhancements. Dolphin doesn’t charge for such necessities, making it especially easier to budget and plan for your ATM program expenses. In addition, Dolphin consolidates all the vendors, responsibilities, and places that burden on itself. This relieves your staff of significant vendor oversight including persistent armor/CIT issues, updates and security patches, etc.
Before you commit to another ATM life cycle with continuing upgrades, software changes and increasing costs, speak with your association representative about Dolphin. Many of our clients have already reaped the benefits of outsourcing and have avoided these costly upgrades and all the vendor management nuisance that comes with the ATM responsibility. You can too. With Dolphin it’s always ATMs & ITMs made simple.