The way businesses are conducted across all sectors, including transportation, is changing due to technological advancements. For instance, the Internet of Things (IoT) connects in-vehicle sensors and other integrated devices across networks, integrating transportation and warehouse management solutions.
Sensors continuously collect, share, and act on real-time data to enhance customer service, enforce laws and regulations, and lower liability costs.
While these and other technological advancements benefit transportation firms greatly, they also open more doors for cybersecurity concerns, relying primarily on linked devices and third-party partnerships with poor security track records.
How to Prevent Cyber Threats in Your Supply Chain
Cybersecurity in logistics must consider the sector’s distinct technological landscape to safeguard these firms from breaches and economic disruptions. Consider the following tactics if you want to increase cybersecurity at your transportation company.
1. Proper Employee Training
Provide personnel with training on how to apply best practices for security protocol. Regular internal audits should be conducted, mainly when new technology is used. Employees should receive training on cybersecurity considerations and principles, including creating strong passwords, detecting phishing emails, and correctly encrypting emails that contain secure information.
The best security infrastructure cannot protect employees who voluntarily divulge passwords and other sensitive information. Ensure your staff members can spot phishing attempts, and know how frauds operate for preventative measures.
2. Take the Best IT Measurements
Run through malware and antivirus software for operating systems and software, then promptly apply updates using a solution that may automate the procedure and offer compliance reporting.
Make regular backups and a disaster recovery plan in the event of a data breach. Make sure to keep a cloud backup and have a thorough Response Plan in case of a cybersecurity concern. Limit password attempts and update security patches. A logistics company must take the initiative to update its system codes.
3. Third-Party Relationships & Access Control
With numerous partnerships for your transportation business, there will be an increase in your network’s vulnerability. Your partners can become liabilities, potentially leading to security vulnerabilities, without having applied proper cybersecurity protocols. Make sure to vet your partners and examine their security procedures thoroughly.
Set a minimum standard for risk assessment that they must follow. If they fall short of that standard, think about finding an alternative. Isolate your partners’ access to your systems, at the very least, to prevent a breach from endangering you—this strategy is otherwise known as “Access Control.”
4. Consider Secure Mobile Connection
The transportation sector benefits significantly from the capabilities made possible by mobile devices, but they can also pose security issues. Fortunately, you can keep up speed and convenience for security—a suitable IT configuration allows you to have both.
Set up distinct boundaries for the network that mobile devices can access, preventing a hack from opening the door to the organization’s complete backend. Remember to prioritize mobile devices in your IT security policy as they gain popularity.
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