Embedded Systems & POS


Security Embedded Systems

Embedded, Terminal & POS

In today’s interconnected world, embedded systems—ranging from smart home devices to industrial control systems and medical devices—are ubiquitous. These systems control critical processes and often store sensitive data. This is precisely why security in embedded systems is essential.

In modern IT environments, embedded systems, as well as point-of-sale (POS) and payment terminals, are ubiquitous. These specialized devices control production processes, process payment data, or form part of networked infrastructures—making them an attractive target for attackers. Vulnerabilities in the firmware layer, insecure communication interfaces, or poorly protected system configurations can lead to data loss, tampering, or service disruptions.

Our Services

  • Security Analysis & Consulting
  • Secure Firmware & Software Development
  • Hardware Security
  • Penetration Testing for Embedded Systems
  • Secure Boot & Device Identity
  • Firmware Protection
  • Secure Communication
  • Secure Update Systems
  • IoT Security
  • Security Testing & Validation
  • Standards & Compliance
  • Training & Workshops

Many embedded devices contain specialized software and hardware that must address security-critical challenges—ranging from protocol communication and IoT controls to industrial control modules and mechanical systems.

We offer targeted security services for embedded systems and POS environments to provide long-term protection for these critical components, identify vulnerabilities early on, and systematically minimize risks.

Approaches, Procedures & Implementation

  • Firmware Analysis & Vulnerability Identification
    In-depth analysis of firmware, interfaces, and protocols
     
  • Reverse Engineering
    Investigation of internal processes and unknown security vulnerabilities
     
  • Physical & logical attack vectors
    Identification of attack vectors at the hardware and software levels
     
  • Configuration & Architecture Audits
    Assessment of the security, up-to-date status, and reliability of embedded systems

Examination Topics

  • BIOS Security (Boot Priorities, Default Configuration & Password Security)
  • Assessment using compromised boot media
  • Security testing of IDS, antivirus, firewall, and protection mechanisms
  • Verification of key, HDD, or data encryption
  • Attacks via the network and interfaces (Production systems and test environments)
  • Security assessment of operating system software (client & server)
  • Security assessment of connected web applications
  • Security assessment of management or service consoles (terminal & console)
  • Security assessment of interfaces (GUI, Control Panel & UI)
  • Security assessment of the operating system kernel
  • System password assessments – efficiency & weaknesses (BIOS, system, network & keys)
  • Security assessment and hardening of deposit/withdrawal modules (dispensers)
  • Hardware configuration assessment to identify unique or static backdoors 
    (Generic, secret interactions/tricks, or functional combinations)
  • Investigation & testing for vulnerabilities in the cash drawer configuration
  • Scanning for known vulnerabilities and security threats
  • Security testing of fraud correlation systems and static security mechanisms
  • Special case scenarios (reproduction & testing of existing security vulnerabilities)
  • Identification of logical errors in functions (manual interaction for manipulation)

Our analyses go beyond simple scan results—we assess actual vulnerability and potential impact on your infrastructure through primarily manual interaction. POS and payment systems process sensitive financial data and are often subject to strict regulatory requirements (such as PCI DSS). Attacks on these systems can not only cause financial damage but also jeopardize trust and reputation.

Expertise

  • Penetration testing of POS terminals and payment components
    Including remote interface checks and physical tampering scenarios
     
  • Analysis of the transaction stack
    Review of all software and network paths in the payment process
     
  • Protection against skimming, tampering, and data exfiltration
    Technical and organizational measures for optimizing system hardening
     
  • Regulatory Compliance Checks
    Support in meeting requirements such as PCI DSS and industry-specific security standards

Technical expertise combined with practical analysis and testing processes:

  1. Targeted risk and vulnerability analysis
  2. Proof-of-concept tests under real-world conditions
  3. Prioritized recommendations for action
  4. Accompanying security concepts and hardening strategies
  5. Cooperation and collaboration with clients

With our comprehensive approach, you can establish a robust security foundation for your embedded and POS infrastructure—efficiently, transparently, and sustainably. We test automated teller machines (ATMs), ticket vending machines, transaction terminals, POS systems, and gaming machines. For security reasons, testing of machines and terminals is conducted exclusively for manufacturers or authorized service providers.

If you have any questions or would like advice as an initial introduction, you can contact us at any time using our contact form.