Exposed Tank Gauges Risk Ops

In today’s interconnected world, even the most mundane industrial components can become points of entry for malicious actors. One such often-ignored element is the Automatic Tank Gauge (ATG)—used widely at gas stations, depots, and backup generator sites to monitor fuel levels, temperature, and leaks. Despite their critical role in operational continuity, thousands of these devices are exposed directly to the internet, many still using default factory credentials. These systems are increasingly becoming a cybersecurity liability.

The Escalating Threat Landscape

For nearly a decade, cybersecurity researchers have warned of significant vulnerabilities in ATG systems. Initial scans identified over 5,000 exposed units accessible via a single TCP port without authentication. More recent analysis reveals that this number has more than doubled. Researchers have disclosed eleven severe vulnerabilities affecting popular ATG models, including command injection flaws and authentication bypasses-many rated as critical severity.

An attacker gaining control over an ATG can manipulate tank readings, disable alarm systems, or rapidly toggle relays to generate electrical surges that physically damage controllers and pumps. Even a minor disruption-like falsely reporting empty tanks—can result in the shutdown of entire fuel stations. The ripple effect extends to backup generators in hospitals and data centers, endangering essential services.

Why ATGs Remain Exposed

• Default Credentials: Many systems still operate with well-known factory logins.
• Neglected Firmware Updates: Physical patching requirements mean many devices are left unpatched-especially once they reach end-of-life.
• Public Internet Exposure: Shodan and similar search engines reveal thousands of ATGs online, lacking network segmentation.
• OT/IT Disparity: Operators often lack cybersecurity training or the tools to enforce modern security standards on legacy OT infrastructure.

Mitigation Strategies: Building a Secure Fuel Infrastructure

To address these vulnerabilities, a layered defense strategy should be implemented, encompassing both technical controls and human awareness:

1. Network Segmentation: ATGs should be isolated on secure VLANs or air-gapped where possible.
2. Credential Hardening: Replace all default credentials with complex, unique passwords and manage them through secure password vaults.
3. Firmware Management: Maintain an inventory of ATG models, apply patches promptly, and retire unsupported hardware.
4. Anomaly Detection: Use AI-enhanced traffic monitoring systems to flag irregular tank readings, unexpected relay activity, or access attempts.
5. Incident Response Planning: Create OT-specific incident playbooks that include ATG compromise scenarios and integrate response across departments.

Conclusion

Automatic Tank Gauges are a critical yet frequently neglected part of national fuel infrastructure. Their widespread exposure, outdated software, and lack of cybersecurity controls make them a prime target for exploitation. As fuel stations and generator systems form part of national critical infrastructure, any compromise has cascading effects. Organizations must take proactive steps to secure these devices by adopting a zero-trust mindset, enforcing modern security practices, and integrating ATGs into broader cybersecurity and risk governance frameworks.

LinkedIn Feature Article

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