Cyberattacks are increasing in frequency and the methods used to conduct them, more sophisticated. As a result, it is critical for fleet operators to prioritize cybersecurity throughout their entire system, from office networks to vehicles and IoT devices.
By Deirdre O鈥橞rien
Waste and recycling fleet management has evolved with the introduction of advanced telematics, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, and cloud-based applications. But these technology advancements also increase the risk of cyber-attacks which can compromise fleet information, disrupt operations, and expose sensitive customer information.
Cyberattacks are increasing in frequency and the methods used to conduct them, more sophisticated. As a result, it is critical for fleet operators to prioritize cybersecurity throughout their entire system, from office networks to vehicles and IoT devices.
This article explores current cybersecurity issues, best practices and what to look for in a solution.
Current Cybersecurity Practices in Fleet Management
Traditional waste and recycling vehicle tracking, route planning, and driver performance monitoring relies on a mix of on-premise and cloud-based fleet management solutions. Within these, cybersecurity controls usually include:
- Network firewalls and antivirus software to identify and block threats.
- User authentication with passwords or PINs to restrict unauthorized access.
- VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) for remote secure connections.
- Device encryption to protect data stored in telematics devices.
- System updates from time to time to fill gaps in software.
Fleet Cybersecurity: Increasing Risks
The measures mentioned above provide a minimum level of protection, but the increasing frequency, scope, scale and effectiveness of cyber threats requires more robust and proactive security practices for the following reasons:
1. Rise in IoT Vulnerabilities: IoT-enabled sensors help optimize routes and monitor fuel and diagnostics in fleets. These devices have their own security settings, which are often weak, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. A successful cyberattack on one device could allow access to the entire fleet system.
2. Mobile Phones and Apps Risks: Field personnel and drivers often use cell phone apps to track their time, access routing data, and report maintenance issues. These applications can expose sensitive data to risk through:
鈥� Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks, where data is intercepted between mobile devices and the cloud.
鈥� Unauthorized app download/malware installation.
鈥� Imitated login page Phishing.
3. Data Breaches in Back-Office Systems: A breach in these systems can result in:
鈥� Sensitive financial and customer data exposure.
鈥� Being locked out of critical business documents through a ransomware attack.
鈥� Operational disruption.
Images courtesy of Safe Fleet.
Self-Hosted Versus Cloud-Based Fleet Management: Security Risks
The need for more scalable, flexible, and cost-effective data management, and better capabilities for remote monitoring and real-time analytics, is driving a transition from self-hosted fleet management systems to cloud-based solutions. Cloud-based systems also make updates and maintenance easier compared to traditional self-hosted systems. They also provide greater cybersecurity protection.
Cloud-based fleet management systems offer several cybersecurity advantages that make them a good choice for waste and recycling operations:
鈥� Enhanced Security Measures: Cloud providers invest heavily in security technologies and protocols above and beyond what a waste and recycling operation could afford or manage. These measures include robust firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular security audits.
鈥� Data Encryption: Cloud services usually encrypt data both at rest and in transit, encompassing on-board IoT devices. This means sensitive information is continuously protected from unauthorized access.
鈥� Regular Updates and Patch Management: Cloud providers are responsible for keeping on top of updates and patches, ensuring the system is protected against known vulnerabilities. As new threats are constantly emerging, this is a critical point – staying up-to-date is a time-consuming task and one not easily tackled by an on-premise administrator.
鈥� Disaster Recovery and Data Redundancy: Cloud systems offer improved data backup and disaster recovery capabilities. Data is often replicated across multiple locations, safeguarding against data loss due to physical damage, system failure, or cyberattacks.
鈥� Scalable Resources: Cloud systems can scale resources easily and quickly. This flexibility means that waste and recycling operations can enhance their cybersecurity measures and even data usage and storage requirements without significant capital investment in physical infrastructure.
鈥� Access Controls and Monitoring: Cloud providers offer sophisticated tools for monitoring access and usage of the system, providing detailed logs that can help in detecting and responding to potential security incidents and ensuing only authorized users can access sensitive functions and data.
By leveraging the expertise and resources of cloud providers, waste and recycling operations can achieve a level of cybersecurity that is typically reserved for larger enterprises.
Choosing a Fleet Management Solution with Advanced Cybersecurity
Risk is increasing, as is the effectiveness of each cyberattack. Cloud-based fleet management solutions offer a waste and recycling operation increased security and operational abilities. In a search for a reliable, well-supported and secure solution, a waste operator should consider:
1. Industry Research: Begin by researching solutions that are specifically tailored to the waste and recycling industry. This ensures the software understands the unique challenges and compliance requirements of the sector.
2. Vendor Reputation and Expertise: Look for vendors with a strong reputation in both fleet management and cybersecurity.
Security Features: Verify potential solutions include key cybersecurity features such as data encryption, regular updates, intrusion detection, and compliance with industry standards.
3. Consultation and Demos: Reach out to vendors for consultations and request demos of their solutions. This will give a practical insight into how the software works and how it can be integrated into your current operations.
4. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure the solution not only meets current regulatory standards but is also capable of adapting to future changes in cybersecurity laws and regulations.
5. Scalability and Support: Consider the future growth of your fleet. The solution should be scalable, and the vendor should offer excellent ongoing support and training.
Ease of Finding a Solution
Finding the ideal solution for your operation might not be simple, the increasing emphasis on cybersecurity is leading to a broader range of vendors and options. Growth in this space also makes it more possible for fleets to discover solutions that align closely with their specific needs. Start your search with a clear understanding of your operation鈥檚 needs and a methodical approach to evaluating options. This will help you streamline the process and enhance the likelihood of securing an effective and secure fleet management solution. | WA
Deirdre O鈥橞rien is the Manager of Content and Creative, Passenger Transportation, Law Enforcement & Waste Division, Safe Fleet. With more than 15 years of expertise in B2B enterprise technology and fleet safety solutions, she specializes in crafting compelling narratives for the passenger transportation, law enforcement, and waste & recycling sectors. Her contributions to go-to-market strategies, product positioning, and thought leadership have consistently driven revenue growth and bolstered industry influence.
Safe Fleet Waste & Recycling (SFWR) is the award-winning technology leader for connected 鈥渟mart truck鈥� solutions for waste management fleets. SFWR鈥檚 technology is derived from a synergy of technologies developed by its parent company Safe Fleet, a leading provider of video and safety solutions for fleets throughout North America and more than 20 years of developing the most advanced fleet management mobile and software solutions specifically designed for waste and recycling collection environments by FleetMind Solutions (a Safe Fleet company). SFWR systems have been installed in thousands of vehicles across North America. Products enable the industry鈥檚 top fleets to link their drivers and vehicles to business operations in real-time to ensure optimal productivity, safety, sustainability, profitability, and customer service. For more information, call (888) 514-7443, or e-mail [email protected]. To learn more about SFWR鈥檚 parent company Safe Fleet, and their portfolio of brands, visit