For most, dealership IT, cybersecurity, and compliance operate in separate silos. Dealership IT keeps systems running, cybersecurity tries to defend them, and compliance checks boxes—often without real integration. The result? Gaps, vulnerabilities, and a false sense of security. In today’s environment, this siloed approach is no longer acceptable. Dealers face growing threats, stricter regulations, and … Read more
Let’s face it—no one ever said “You know what sounds fun? A deep dive into FTC cybersecurity compliance requirements.” But here we are, because like it or not, the success and survival of your dealership depend on more than just your sales team and service bay. Your cyber defense—and your ability to comply with the … Read more
In a recent Automotive News article titled “FTC publishes an FAQ for dealerships on Safeguards: Here’s what to know,” the Federal Trade Commission’s June release of a detailed FAQ is highlighted as a key resource for dealerships working to comply with the FTC Safeguards Rule. The rule—originally enacted in 2003 and updated in 2021 and … Read more
It’s been nearly a year since the devastating CDK Global cyberattack brought operations at thousands of dealerships to a halt—and yet, here we are again. Same criminal group. Same playbook. Different victim. The CDK Hackers just proved you haven’t learned a thing. In late April 2025, Branhaven Motors Inc., a Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram dealership in Branford, Connecticut, … Read more
If you’re a dealership manager without an IT background, you’re not alone—and you’re not off the hook either. You don’t need to know how to configure a firewall or install an endpoint agent, but you do need to know whether your IT and cybersecurity teams are doing their jobs. Why? Because if they aren’t, you’re … Read more
In today’s uncertain economy, dealership executives are under pressure to reduce costs wherever possible. One of the smartest ways to get more favorable cyber insurance terms & premiums is with stronger cybersecurity—a strategy that’s gaining momentum across the auto retail industry. As cyber liability insurance premiums rise in response to growing threats, underwriters are rewarding … Read more
Economic Chaos = Cyber Risk: Why It’s Time to Rethink How You Defend Your Dealership At first glance, President Trump’s proposed tariffs and the mounting trade tensions might seem like issues for politicians and economists to wrangle with. But if you manage a car dealership, how tariffs and economic uncertainty are increasing cybersecurity risks for … Read more
Let’s play out a scenario. It’s 8:15 AM on a Monday. You’re sipping your coffee, prepping for another day of selling cars, when your IT guy strolls in, tosses his badge on your desk, and says, “I’m out. Just won the lottery!” Congratulations to him. Condolences to you. Because whether he’s heading to Bora Bora … Read more
A comprehensive information security program encompasses policies, procedures, and technologies designed to protect data and systems. It ensures confidentiality, integrity, and availability through risk management, access controls, and incident response. More than just an IT initiative, it’s a business imperative that safeguards your dealership’s reputation, compliance, and bottom line. Key Components of a Comprehensive Information … Read more