Security

Why you even need to consider cyber-security for your business cars – The London Economic


In more recent years, fleet management has become smarter
and more sophisticated in terms of the systems they use. This not only includes
the use of GPS but also telematics, data and co-ordination systems that
interlink their entire fleet.

However, with this sophistication of systems comes the risk
of cyber threats. Whilst it can be hard to believe that someone one target a
fleet management system, everyone is at risk from the threats that new
technologies pose. With fleet systems being so networked and interlinked there are
measures that fleets need to be taking to ensure that they are secure from the
likelihood of these threats.

What do companies
need to look out for?

With regards to business vehicle management, there are a variety
of threats that a company could be facing. One of the main concerns within the
industry is the implementation of Artificial Intelligence and the potential
threat of overtaking, not only individual vehicles, but the entire fleet.

Not only this, but companies need to be aware of email
planting via spoofing email clients and fake press releases. These could not
only put their own company at threat, but also the abundance of data they hold
containing customer information.

Electronic logging of
data

Whilst keeping and accessing data electronically has so many
advantages compared to outdated paper systems, it also increases the risk of
cyber threats. With data files, GPS systems, and records of financial
information a hack into their data could lead to service interruptions, data
breaches, fines and legal actions. All of these could result in a loss of
customers due to lack of trust and reputation, giving competitors the advantage
and making it harder to recover from.

Especially, with the current new GDPR legislation, companies
are subject to even greater fines if a threat was to access customer details
and information. Not just on a company-wide level but it could also impact
individuals too.

A heavy reliance on these systems means that it is more
important than ever for fleet companies to secure their systems and be aware of
the actions they need to take to help protect their data.

How fleet management
companies can protect themselves

One of the first things fleet businesses can look at is
encrypting their systems and clouding data. This can include
multi-authentication passwords, encrypting emails and CRM systems. This can
mean that data is submitted separately from encryption keys and can make it a
lot harder for anyone to hack.

It not only eliminates the hacking risk, but also means that
companies can embrace Intrusion Prevention Systems, which means vehicles cannot
be accessed remotely. Even if the onboard computer gets hacked, this type of
security can enable the driver to take back control of braking and power
systems to avoid any accidents or dangerous driving, putting people and the
company at risk.

With this type of security in place, it can also help to
protect data and avoid viruses. Whilst businesses with a fleet of vehicles can
implement a flexible
fleet insurance policy
, it is also recommended that they consider
cyber insurance
as part of their overall risk protection strategy.

Keeping employees
educated

From top management, all the way down the hierarchy, it is
important for fleet businesses to ensure that everyone is equipped with the
right skills and knowledge to ensure that there are no extra risks when it
comes to cyber security. This includes writing policies where people should
follow best practices when it comes to emails, data, systems use or driving. A
wide-spread education within the whole organisation can ensure that all fleet
managers and drivers have the knowledge required regarding risks to the
company.

Furthermore, it’s important for companies to remain up to
date with software updates and utilise systems that can help keep their data
more secure. Even if companies do not have the capacity or knowledge to encrypt
and secure data, there are cloud systems that do have the capabilities,
security and expertise to secure systems. Not only does this mean that systems
are more secure, but also ensures you meet data security legislation in a professional
capacity if you do not have the manpower within your fleet to do this.

Overall, it’s important for fleet companies to be cautious.
Do not assume that it won’t happen to you. Protect your business and put the
best practices in motion to ensure you are secure. Make sure you’re adapting to
new risks and you can eliminate any risks behind cyber threats and keep your
company and customers safe against the risk.



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