Cybersecurity is a very real threat that should be acknowledged by businesses in every industry, including auto workers. Car dealerships, auto auctions, brokers, and even car haulers can fall victim to cyber threats, and as such, they should all take the proper precautions in order to avoid falling victim. To help your auto business avoid these threats, we’ve created a list of tips for keeping your auto business more secure and safe from potential threats.
Properly Train Your Employees
A huge part of staying safe from online threats is properly teaching and training your employees about basic security measures and policies, including appropriate internet usage on work computers, utilizing strong passwords, learning how to avoid phishing scams, as well as the handling and protection of sensitive customer information. There are tons of great online resources for training your employees that you can utilize, many of which are free.
Use Up-to-Date Security Software
Make sure that the devices that your company uses has up-to-date security software, which will help keep it protected from outside threats. Frequently updating your antivirus software and using a modern operating system are the best ways to defend against malware and other threats.
One easy way to stay up-to-date is to turn on automatic updates for your computer’s OS and your antivirus software, as well as setting your antivirus software to scan for threats after each update.
Use a Protected Internet Connection
Another important tip is to always work while using a protected internet connection – this can be done through use of a firewall, which will protect outsiders from accessing your data on a private network. This can be done easily by using your operating system’s firewall (Windows 10 and 11 has one built in) or you can easily install your own firewall software online.
Use an SSO (Single Sign-On) System
Another excellent way to increase your security level is through the use of an SSO (single sign-on) system such as WorkOS. An SSO allows you to more easily give your employees access to user accounts without having to remember passwords, manage your employees’ account access within a directory, and adds an additional layer of security. You can even remove employee access to certain programs, in the event of an employee being fired or quitting. An SSO is very easy to implement, and is one of the most effective ways to increase security.
Make Backups of Important Business Data
Always make backups, and on a regular basis. Critical data such as electronic spreadsheets, databases, HR files, records of finances, accounts receivable/payable files, and much more should all be regularly backed up on a regular basis. It’s also possible to backup data automatically, or at the very least, on a weekly basis and store it in the cloud. And if you do store it in the cloud, be sure to properly protect that as well.
Limit Employee Access to Sensitive Data and Information
Never provide one single employee with access to all data systems. Employees should only ever have access to the specific systems that they need for performing their own job, and shouldn’t have the ability to install any software or log into every system without explicit permission. This allows data to stay more secure, and can avoid problems in the event of an employee’s account getting breached.
Regularly Change Passwords, Use 2-Factor Authentication
Another very important security measure is to require your employees to all use unique passwords, and to change passwords at least once every three months. Using multi-factor authentication is a great additional security measure to utilize, as it requires additional info beyond just a password entry in order to gain access into an account.
Use Super Dispatch
Super Dispatch offers an all-in-one platform for moving cars, with both an advanced load board and transportation management system bundled together in one tight package. Our platform supports SSO (single sign-op), for those looking to add some extra security. If this seems like something that your auto business could use, then consider trying it out. Request a demo today!
