In todays age, gas stations have evolved beyond fuel pumps and convenience stores to include intricate networks that to support operations, security systems, payment processing, and more. While these advancements bring efficiency, they also open the door to potential cyber threats. One such vulnerability lies in the use of TCP/IP cards in gas station networks, which can be susceptible to hacking. These cards are commonly found connected to the Gilbarco Veeder-Root systems.
“A recent research conducted by HD Moore of Rapid7 revealed a disconcerting truth, the Automated tank gauges (ATGs) used to prevent fuel leaks at more than 5,000 gas stations in the US are vulnerable to remote cyber attacks that could completely shut down the stations using vulnerable ATGs.” the report goes on to state ““Many ATGs can be programmed and monitored through a built-in serial port, a plug-in serial port, a fax/modem, or a TCP/IP circuit board,” Moore explained on Rapid7’s Security Street blog. “In order to monitor these systems remotely, many operators use a TCP/IP card or a third-party serial port server to map the ATG serial interface to an internet-facing TCP port. The most common configuration is to map these to TCP port 10001.”
However, there’s a robust solution that promises to fortify these networks and provide an impenetrable defense against cyber attacks: Petromo hardware.
The Vulnerability of TCP/IP Cards
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) cards are widely used in gas stations to enable remote communication between the station and devices, such as ATG (automated tank gauge), fuel dispensers and point-of-sale terminals, and the station’s central system. These cards, while efficient in facilitating real-time data exchange, can be vulnerable to cyber attacks due to their inherent design. Hackers with malicious intent can exploit weaknesses in the TCP/IP protocol to gain unauthorized access to a gas station’s network, compromising sensitive data, disrupting operations, and potentially causing financial losses. This disruption and losses can be hard to control once started and insurance may not afford coverage.
Introducing Petromo Hardware: A Secure Defense
Petromo hardware serves as a beacon of hope in the battle against cyber threats in the gas station industry. Independently tested and verified as highly secure (tested by Security Innovations), Petromo hardware replaces the old antiquated TCP/IP connectivity and utilizes the latest end to end encryption, effectively locking down the network and thwarting attempts at unauthorized access.
Here are the key features that make Petromo hardware a game-changer for gas station network security:
Advanced Encryption: Petromo hardware employs state-of-the-art encryption methods, making it extremely difficult for cybercriminals to decipher intercepted data. This ensures that sensitive information, such as customer payment details and inventory data, remains secure.
Intrusion Detection and Prevention: Petromo hardware is equipped with sophisticated intrusion detection and prevention mechanisms that continuously monitor network traffic. Any suspicious activity is immediately identified and blocked, preventing potential cyber attacks in real time.
Secure Authentication: Petromo hardware implements robust authentication measures, ensuring that only authorized devices and users can access the gas station’s network. This prevents unauthorized devices from infiltrating the system.
Regular Updates: Petromo hardware is designed with security in mind, and the manufacturer provides regular updates to address emerging threats and vulnerabilities. This proactive approach ensures that the network remains resilient against evolving cyber attacks.
User-Friendly Integration: Implementing Petromo hardware is seamless, and its user-friendly interface makes it accessible for gas station owners and IT personnel, allowing for hassle-free network management and monitoring.
The importance of network security at gas stations cannot be overstated. With the increasing reliance on digital infrastructure, it’s essential to safeguard sensitive data and maintain uninterrupted operations. By integrating Petromo hardware into their network architecture, gas station owners can rest assured that their systems are fortified against cyber threats. Independently tested and verified as highly secure, Petromo hardware is the shield that prevents hackers from exploiting vulnerabilities in TCP/IP cards. Embrace the future of gas station security with Petromo, and ensure the safety of your network, customers, and business operations.
