Secure Fleet Management

Secure fleet management is crucial to securing your operations and data. To ensure fleet safety in an environment of ever-increasing threats, fleet technology must be designed with cybersecurity at the forefront. As Cybersecurity Awareness Month, October is the time to recognize the risks.

Over the last few years, there’s been unprecedented growth in highly disruptive cyberattacks. Some of the worst involve ransomware. Ransomware can disable networked devices by encrypting the data on affected equipment.

Ransomware is part of about 10% of all cybersecurity breaches, and it doubled in frequency in 2021 alone. Assets that were never subject to this kind of attack before, such as fleet vehicles, can now be targeted due to the prevalence of wireless “Internet of Things” devices.

Fleet Management Data Is an Especially Tempting Target for Criminals

Fleet management data is valuable, and opportunities to disrupt fleet operations by accessing on-board technology may lead to multi-million dollar ransoms. At a time when more enterprises are learning just how effective fleet management software can be, the danger level is climbing.

Fleet vehicles are typically networked together to rapidly share data on road conditions, scheduling, and more. As a result, infiltrating a single vehicle is most of the work necessary to access the entire fleet. The administrative systems connected to the fleet management app may also be vulnerable.

Don’t put off your fleet technology investments – but do make sure your network is secure.

How to Secure Fleet Management Systems and Your Corporate Network

Internet security technologies are constantly advancing. They need to evolve quickly to respond to “Day Zero” threats, never-before-seen attacks with maximum destructive potential. Protecting your sensitive data and valuable assets requires a “defense-in-depth” approach.

Defense-in-depth means having multiple layers of defense that work together to secure each individual area of vulnerability. By combining several technologies alongside the right training for both technical and non-technical personnel, you can make a hacking attack less likely.

Most hacking can be thought of as “crimes of opportunity.” Hackers around the world launch millions of automated attacks every day, but only follow-up with more sophisticated methods when a vulnerability is detected – much like a would-be burglar checking neighborhood doors.

Here are some of the most effective ways to keep those doors closed:

1. Invest in Secure Fleet Management Technology

Your fleet management provider should have a proactive approach to security. These days, that includes regular, automatic patches and updates to the underlying software. Patches provide security support for new threats, but they are only effective when they are applied promptly.

2. Teach Your Drivers the Basics About Cybersecurity

If your fleet management app requires personnel to log in, they should protect their login credentials with the same seriousness they would their bank account or Social Security information. Be sure the people your fleet relies are on receiving regular security training as threats continue to change.

3. Use Practice Drills for Common Cyber Attacks

Recognizing that your on-board technology has been compromised is a little bit more complex than spotting a scam email from an alleged Nigerian prince. For example, hackers may try to feed drivers inaccurate GPS information. All staff should know what to do and how to report such anomalies.

4. Build a Secure Perimeter Between Networks

Your networked fleet may exchange data with your internal corporate network on a regular basis, but the two should be considered separate security “silos.” Reduced access means it will be harder for an attacker to get into financial or personnel records simply by “spoofing” (appearing as) part of your fleet.