Image Credits:Getty Images

Hundreds of Orpak gas station systems can be easily hacked thanks to hardcoded passwords

Homeland Security’s cybersecurity agency says a popular gas station software contains several security vulnerabilities that require “low skill” to exploit.

The advisory, posted by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), gave the Orpak SiteOmat software a rare vulnerability severity rating of 9.8 out of 10.

Orpak’s SiteOmat systems monitor the amount of fuel stored in a gas station’s tanks, as well as their temperature and pressure. The software also sets the price of the gas and processes card payments. Its user interface is password protected, preventing unauthorized access to its data or configuration.

According to the advisory, the software contained a hardcoded password set by the manufacturer, which if used would grant unfettered access to the system.

CISA didn’t publish the password.

The advisory said an attacker could gain access to the system’s configuration, including payment information, or shut down the system altogether, preventing customers from buying gas. Worse, the bugs are remotely exploitable, putting any internet-connected SiteOmat device at risk.

A cursory search of Shodan, a search engine for publicly available devices and databases, revealed more than 570 Orpak systems are connected to the internet out of more than 35,000 service stations across 60 countries.

Techcrunch event

Disrupt 2026: The tech ecosystem, all in one room

Your next round. Your next hire. Your next breakout opportunity. Find it at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, where 10,000+ founders, investors, and tech leaders gather for three days of 250+ tactical sessions, powerful introductions, and market-defining innovation. Register now to save up to $400.

Save up to $300 or 30% to TechCrunch Founder Summit

1,000+ founders and investors come together at TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026 for a full day focused on growth, execution, and real-world scaling. Learn from founders and investors who have shaped the industry. Connect with peers navigating similar growth stages. Walk away with tactics you can apply immediately

Offer ends March 13.

San Francisco, CA | October 13-15, 2026

Most of the exposed systems are located in the U.S.

The software also has several other flaws that can be remotely exploited, including code injection and buffer overflow vulnerabilities.

Security researchers Ido Naor and Amihai Neiderman were credited with finding the bugs — the second time in as many years. Last year, the two reported flaws in the SiteOmat, including another hardcoded password. The buffer overflow flaw would not only let an attacker gain access to the system but also erase its logs, wiping any evidence of their activity.

CISA said the bugs had been fixed in a new software version — v6.4.414.139 — but customers have to request the update from Orpak directly.

A spokesperson for Orpak parent company Gilbarco Veeder-Root did not return a request for comment.

After account hacks, Twitch streamers take security into their own hands

Topics

, , , , , , , ,
Loading the next article
Error loading the next article