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Integrating advanced and innovative technologies like big data, IoT, AI, etc., has greatly impacted practically every business, including fleet management. The power of big data has elevated fleet management to new heights. The bulk amount of data extracted from the moving fleets provides fleet managers with real-time updates when paired with data analytics. These data-driven insights enable fleet managers to make well-informed decisions.
However, introducing this advanced software and connected fleets has provided hackers access to various attack points that can disrupt a fleet’s operations. Hackers can take over control of the whole fleet and corrupt or steal sensitive data. The data disruptions can cause a huge loss or may result from facing costly legal consequences.
With the rising technologies, exposure to outside security threats also grows. In this blog, we will discuss about the importance of fleet cyber security.
Fleet Data: Handle with Care
There are various ways hackers and other cyber criminals can gain access and control of your fleet.
For instance, hackers can gain access to the fleet’s wireless connections or the electronic control unit. When hackers gain access to system control, they can perform different actions such as steering, braking, etc. Another possible way that is open to intruders is through the smartphone connected to the port inside the vehicle. Once the hacker has gained control of any of these, they can easily access the whole fleet operations.
Cyber attackers can thus be able to control the steering, brakes, and gain access to other important fleet data. Thus, a successful cyber-attack can result in far more than just financial loss or operational disruption.
How To Make Your Fleet More Secure
Now that we have understood how cyber attackers can gain control of vehicles let us see how fleet businesses can mitigate risk. Here are the tips to make the fleet more secure from hackers:
- Control who has physical access to your fleets
It is required to store the fleets in a controlled environment, and only authorized people can access them. This will drastically reduce the number of unauthorized hands accessing your fleet’s software.
- Be cautious when installing new software
Fleet managers must be cautious and alert when installing new software and systems. It is desirable to install devices and software from a trusted brand on a secure network. Moreover, the new software should be thoroughly evaluated before installing.
A comprehensive security policy must also be in place that defines various guidelines for the fleet. This precaution can help to reduce security breaches due to malicious software from unauthorized third parties.
Fleet managers should gather all the possible reviews and feedback about the product, know the encryption policies, the infrastructure they maintain, etc.
- Make employees aware of the potential risk
One of the other ways to prevent hackers from gaining control of connected fleets is to inform employees about the potential hazards and ramifications properly.
Leaders can also take steps to develop various security training programs, policies, and procedures. Highly trained employees will have the tools and knowledge essential to make better decisions.
- Stay UpToDate
Always staying on top of the software update is a key step in keeping fleets away from cyber-attacks. Patches and features that improve security are frequently included in software updates. By skipping an update, you run the danger of exposing the fleet to attack.
Many telematics platforms provide software upgrades automatically. Inquire about the frequency of updates from the vendor or fleet management business before choosing any software or hardware. By doing this, you can determine how frequently they update and enhance their systems.
Bottom Line
The way we live and conduct business will completely change due to the quickly modernizing and the interconnected digital revolution that fleets are leading. However, the promised future transportation will only be a reality if we can keep our most valuable assets secure.
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