An Eye-Opening Discovery: The True Intent of The FTC Safeguards Rule

eye opening

The FTC Safeguards Rule mandates that dealerships must “develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive information security program.” The Rule illustrates the FTC’s commitment to compelling businesses to establish an effective cyber defense to protect consumer information. However, many dealerships are simply concentrating their compliance efforts on isolated measures that alone fall short of constituting a … Read more

The Critical Role of Data Encryption Keys in Cybersecurity

data encryption

Safeguarding consumer information has become paramount. With the rise of government data security regulations and the increasing incidence and severity of cybercrime, businesses are scrambling to improve their cyber defenses.  An essential part of a comprehensive information security program is data encryption.  However, the effectiveness of data encryption hinges on a factor often overlooked – … Read more

The Worthless Vulnerability Scan

worthless design

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) mandates that dealerships – like any other business – have a “comprehensive information security program” in place to protect sensitive customer data.  In this blog, we’ll delve into the critical aspects of vulnerability management, highlighting why a vulnerability scan – while valuable – is just the starting point and by … Read more

The Compliance Illusion: Auto Dealerships, FTC Safeguards Rule, and the Reality of Cybersecurity

illusionist

The Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Safeguards Rule and cyber liability insurance requirements are putting immense pressure on auto dealerships to secure their sensitive data.  Seeking an easy, inexpensive solution, many have been tempted by the allure of a “magic pill.”  But here’s the stark truth: there is no such thing. A prime example of this … Read more

A Self-Assessment Cautionary Tale

self-assessment

Many dealerships have been falsely led to believe that FTC compliance can be satisfied with checklists and self-assessments completed by those with limited – if any – technical cybersecurity training and expertise.  This is not the case and the consequences of this approach to cybersecurity, FTC compliance, and in securing cyber liability insurance can be … Read more

The Power of Cybersecurity Context

context

Auto dealerships have become prime targets for cyberattacks. As technology becomes increasingly integrated into every aspect of selling and servicing cars and trucks, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has never been more critical. While many dealerships rely on traditional security controls like firewalls, vulnerability scans, and endpoint tools, these alone are not sufficient to … Read more

The Clock is Ticking – Why Upgrading to Windows 11 is Crucial

clicking time bomb

Update, October 2026: Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025, and paid Extended Security Updates Year 1 for business PCs ends October 13, 2026. For current dates, costs, and a store-by-store plan, read our Windows 10 Extended Security Updates action plan for dealerships. Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 10 will end on … Read more

Why Your Dealership Needs An Adaptive IT & Cybersecurity Approach

adaptive

Cybercrime is not just a nuisance; it’s a relentless and evolving threat that can strike at any moment. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated by the day, cybersecurity best practices and technologies, as well as government regulations, are struggling to keep up. To protect your dealership from this chronic danger, it’s time for dealerships of all … Read more

Mobile Device Management for Auto Dealerships

ipad in dealership

Dealerships increasingly rely on mobile technology – and effectively managing a fleet of mobile devices efficiently and securely is becoming a critical concern. This is where Mobile Device Management (MDM) steps in. What is Mobile Device Management (MDM)? Mobile Device Management (MDM) refers to a comprehensive set of tools and technologies designed to streamline the … Read more