Dealership Management System Cybersecurity: Your Guide To Securing Your Business
Dealerships are in the business of selling experiences – from the thrill of owning a new boat to the joy of travelling in an RV. Yet, the operations behind these sales are anything but laid-back, especially regarding cybersecurity. Dealerships are often targeted by cyberattacks, including ransomware, posing a serious risk to their operations, and it’s becoming more frequent.
Dealerships, often relying on local servers, are particularly susceptible to cyber threats. An employee’s misguided click can give hackers access to the entire network. With the nature of the sensitive information that dealerships are privy to, like customers’ personal details and financial information about the company, they can be a significant target for cyber crimes.
Understanding the Motivation Behind Cyberattacks
Hackers primarily target dealerships for financial gain, whether through data theft, like customer credit card information, or ransomware, where they demand payment to unlock infected systems. Most attacks are not personal but random, casting a wide net to see what they can catch. This approach has led to a significant increase in ransomware attacks on medium-sized organizations.
Common Cyberattack Methods
Cybercriminals typically use one of three tactics: social engineering, exploiting unpatched software, and using known passwords.
Social Engineering
This method involves tricking individuals into revealing sensitive information or downloading malicious software. Phishing emails, pretending to be from legitimate sources, are a common strategy.
Exploiting Unpatched Software
Hackers look for systems running outdated software to exploit known vulnerabilities.
Using Known Passwords
Accessing systems with previously breached or reused passwords is another common entry point for hackers.
Best Practices for Dealership Cybersecurity
Addressing vulnerabilities is crucial to defending against cyber threats. To enhance your dealership’s cybersecurity, consider the following strategies:
- Train employees to recognize and avoid phishing attempts and suspicious messages.
- Regularly patch all internet-accessible software to close security loopholes.
- Implement multi-factor authentication and strong passwords. Use multiple verification methods and complex passwords to secure access to systems.
- Teach staff to spot and avoid malicious links that could lead to compromised systems.
Benefits of Cloud-Based Dealership Management Systems for Cybersecurity
Switching to a cloud hosting service offers several security advantages over traditional on-premise servers:
- Cloud services provide additional security layers, making it harder for hackers to access your data directly from compromised devices.
- Cloud providers monitor the storage environment, manage system updates, and alert you to potential threats.
- Cloud solutions ensure your data is backed up in real-time, allowing for quick recovery during a cyberattack.
Stay Secure with Workflow 360° Dealership Service Software
Switching to the cloud simplifies many operational aspects and significantly bolsters your cybersecurity posture. As the industry moves towards more digital operations, embracing cloud technology can be a strategic decision to protect your dealership from cyber threats.
In the ever-evolving automotive industry landscape, the importance of a secure dealership management system cannot be overstated. Workflow 360˚ offers unparalleled customization and efficiency improvements that go beyond the basics. It bridges the gap between dealers and customers, enhances workflow, and significantly contributes to a dealership’s profitability. Learn more about the Workflow 360˚ dealership management system and help improve performance and security across your dealership.
