Ensuring the security of your auto dealership's data resources is an essential part of leadership today and one that takes several forms. Your business should be equipped with the latest technology, with hardware and software updated to their latest versions to minimize possible vulnerabilities. Employees must also have a solid understanding of best practices, with a team of experts on call for support – IT assistance can come from either internal groups or third-party partners.
Considering top threats
When thinking about the kinds of threats to defend against, the list must begin with phishing. These attacks are especially prominent because they are common, and because they are specifically designed to get around defenses. The concept of phishing involves tricking employees into clicking on false websites or links. Malicious code does the rest, compromising your systems and putting data at risk. Even auto dealerships that operate mainly in brick-and-mortar space have information criminals will potentially want to steal.
An IT assessment will determine whether your organization's security posture is up to today's standards. The following are a few more things to keep in mind about today's top cyberthreats facing independent companies such as dealerships.
Phishing has evolved
One reason to assess your IT often and keep up with trends is the inescapable fact that hackers are improving their craft over time. While phishing was once associated with brute-force attacks, with thousands of poorly made emails containing malicious code, today's methodologies are more precise and targeted, and therefore more dangerous. Spear phishing is the industry term for a phishing attack crafted to convincingly fool a victim into giving a criminal access to IT systems.
The PCI Security Standards Council broke down how such an attack works. First, the hackers scoop up information on the company and employees via social media channels. They construct legitimate-looking backgrounds for their emails or phone calls. Next, the hackers reach out, impersonating a known individual or company. While employees won't necessarily click on the scattershot emails associated with traditional phishing, modern fakes are hard to detect – and one click on their payloads is enough to cause a major security breach.
Understanding the urgency
BizTech contributor Joel Snyder explained there is no more important threat to guard against than phishing. He added that staff training and preparation are essential in keeping this type of treat from turning into a costly breach. Furthermore, your dealership can employ new ways to keep attackers from using conventional hacking methods. For instance, passwords are a major vulnerability – using more secure login methods such as two-factor authentication can remove vulnerability to certain attacks.
Managed security services can help with multiple methods of protection. From anti-malware systems guarding online connections to real-time data monitoring, advanced third-party providers can act as a line of defense between your employees and the threats that are lurking for your business. There are many ways for hackers to get in, so you should ensure the partner organization you work with is comprehensive, guarding email, web browsers and mobile devices. Just one breach of security could be highly damaging to your dealership's prospects, so taking risks is a bad idea.
