by Envisant & Meirtran

As 2026 begins, credit unions are navigating significant shifts in ATM operating systems, device security, and ongoing physical and logical theft threats. To help credit unions plan strategically for the year ahead, Envisant is partnering with Meirtran, our longtime ATM service provider, to share important updates and best practices.

For credit unions reviewing their ATM fleet, or considering outsourcing, Meirtran is offering a complimentary portfolio review. This high level, no obligation assessment outlines current Windows 10 exposure, evaluates security posture, and provides practical planning guidance for upgrades and budgeting. Credit unions can also explore Meirtran’s turnkey outsourcing program, which removes capital expense, frees internal staff time, and ensures continuous compliance and security.

Windows 10 Sunsetting: What It Means for Your ATM Fleet

ATM operating systems are approaching important end of support deadlines. While these dates may seem distant, upgrades in the ATM environment often involve multi year planning due to certification cycles, hardware lifecycle considerations, and regulatory constraints. Meirtran is helping credit unions evaluate their OS status now to prepare for smooth, timely transitions.
Windows 10 Versions Commonly Found in ATM Deployments

• Windows 10 (2016) – 1607 LTSB
  Support ends October 2026
• Windows 10 (2019) – 1809 LTSC
  Support ends January 2029
• Windows 10 (2021) – 21H2 LTSC
  Support ends January 2032, with upgrade options through 2034

Understanding which versions your ATMs are running helps avoid rushed decisions, unplanned costs, and unnecessary exposure. Meirtran can provide a version comparison chart and guidance as part of the portfolio review.

ATM Security: Key Risks and What Credit Unions Should Be Protecting Against in 2026

ATM theft attempts continue to evolve, affecting both Windows 10 and legacy Windows CE machines. Below is an overview of key threats and the protections Meirtran strongly recommends.

1. Hard Drive Encryption (HDE) for Windows 10 Machines

For any ATM running Windows 10—Hyosung, NCR, or Diebold—Hard Drive Encryption is critical. HDE prevents criminals from installing unauthorized hard drives or accessing system files, dramatically reducing the risk of logical attacks.

2. CDU Binding for Windows CE 6.0 ATMs
If your credit union still operates Windows CE machines, ensure CDU Binding is enabled.
CDU Binding:

• Pairs the dispenser to the ATM’s specific main board
• Rejects any non authorized commands
• Locks the dispenser if an attack attempt occurs
• Requires a technician to reset the unit

This feature is one of the most effective defenses for legacy CE based ATMs.

3. Jackpotting Risks in Island ATMs
Island ATMs, with easily accessible top housings, remain a primary target for jackpotting attempts.
Meirtran recommends through the wall machines installed inside steel kiosks, which:

• Eliminate exposed top hat access
• Prevent criminals from inserting foreign devices
• Provide significantly stronger physical protection
• For vulnerable locations, this configuration meaningfully reduces risk.

4. Rising Threat of Man in the Middle (MITM) Attacks

A growing trend involves criminals intercepting communication between the ATM and the processor. The attacker manipulates the message so the ATM believes a transaction was approved often with a non traceable card number.

To stop these attacks, Meirtran deploys:

• A dedicated, encrypted wireless modem completely separate from any FI network
• MAC (Message Authentication Code) encryption – this is a digital seal that marries the ATM to the processor via a 2nd set of comvelopes and creates a secret key by ATM
• SSL certificate validation between ATM and processor
• Automatic shutdown of dispensing if certificates fail to match

This ensures the ATM cannot be fooled into dispensing unauthorized cash.

Meirtran also notes that many MITM attempts originate from remote access systems where default passwords were never changed. Regular password updates and access oversight are strongly encouraged.

Plan Confidently for 2026 with Envisant & Meirtran

Modernizing and securing an ATM fleet can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Envisant and Meirtran are here to support your planning, provide expert guidance, and deliver turnkey solutions that remove operational burden from your teams.

Your complimentary ATM portfolio review includes:

• Assessment of Windows 10 and CE environments
• Security evaluation and risk mitigation guidance
• Version and upgrade mapping
• Options for cost effective modernization
• Insight into Meirtran’s fully outsourced ATM program

If you’d like help planning your ATM strategy for 2026 and beyond, we’re here to assist. Click here to contact us.