Vulnerabilities in the Trucking Industry
Cybersecurity is a growing concern in the trucking industry. Cyber-attacks are becoming more prevalent and there is potential for a serious attack that might damage or disable equipment, endanger truckers and members of the community, or cause a major disruption in the transportation of goods. Technology has advanced rapidly with more software-based solutions and internet-connected devices that are largely unguarded. The trucking industry is at risk of a costly, and potentially devastating cyber-attack. Trucking companies need to focus on cybersecurity now.
Trucking’s Unique Challenges
Like all businesses, trucking businesses are vulnerable to viruses and malware on laptops, computers, servers, and other office equipment. Through phishing attacks, hackers can pose as vendors or other business partners to solicit money, gain access to bank accounts, obtain account credentials to access confidential information and eventually launch ransomware attacks to disable systems and equipment until a ransom is paid. Businesses mitigate the risks with antivirus software, encryption, smart password policies and practices, and IT support. Trucking businesses must consider these vulnerabilities and more.
Trucking businesses have unique challenges to guard against exploits on the technology in trucks and the equipment and software that support the operation of those trucks. Shop systems may include software and internet-connected tools that are used to communicate with vehicles and parts for diagnostics and repair. The trucks themselves are often fitted with GPS devices, electronic logging devices or ELDs, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, sensors, and mobile apps. This ever-evolving technology increases efficiency but also introduces more points of vulnerability that cybersecurity solutions must keep pace with.
What Cybersecurity Can Do for Your Business
Having a cybersecurity strategy to safeguard computers and related equipment in your back offices is vital, but it must also extend to all parts of the trucking business. Installing and maintaining antivirus software on all internet-connected devices, implementing practices around creating strong passwords and keeping them secure, and diligently monitoring systems are all a part of a good cybersecurity strategy. Training every employee in policies and practices that keep the company’s assets secure is the key to success.
With a good strategy in place, a trucking business can greatly reduce the chances of an attack. While no system is impenetrable, a well-designed and maintained cybersecurity system will protect against most attacks and make the company it protects less attractive to hackers looking for an easy target.
The Benefits of Cybersecurity for Your Trucking Business
Some of the benefits of a good cybersecurity strategy include maintaining all the benefits of the technology you have invested in such as efficient deliveries, driver safety and comfort, reliable communication, and tracking, etc. Defending against fraud through phishing schemes will save money but also the time that would be spent on reporting and investigating fraudulent activity. A protected company, that rarely experiences security breaches and is unscathed during waves of cyber-attacks, will inspire trust and attract more clients. Timely efforts to create and maintain cybersecurity now will pay off in the long run.
