Modern email phishing attacks typically begin with an email that appears to be from someone you may know or trust. These may also be crafted to appear to come from an authority such as a government entity in an attempt to frighten the recipient.  However, things are not always as they appear.  The email may really be from a malicious actor. Attachments to the email may contain malware that could infect your computer, or the body of the email may contain links to click, leading the user to bogus web sites.

Email Risks in Your Dealership

Keeping up with the latest in cybersecurity can be a daunting task. New and more dangerous threats could be circulating at all times.  It's a good idea to stay informed of potential dangers so you can take stronger steps to keep your systems safe.  Though the types of attacks and IT security risks to your dealership below are not new, they are continuing to increase both in frequency and sophistication.

Phishing Attacks 

A dealer's list of daily to-dos is sometimes longer than the available hours in a day.  In addition to handling numerous requests from a variety of people, attending store meetings, and following up with potential buyers, tasks like compliance obligations can rapidly pile up to an overwhelming level.

Spend Your Time Wisely

Dealers keep their customers’ personal information on file for business purposes; however, there is a growing need for effective data security measures to prevent this information from falling into the wrong hands. The rising cost of cybercrime is expected to exceed $2 trillion by 2019, while a large number of consumers, 68%,[1] don’t trust brands to handle their personal information appropriately.

In August 2018, a critical vulnerability was discovered by researchers who were able to send an encoded fax document, placing malicious malware on the receiving fax machine. Yes, even fax machines are subject to security vulnerabilities. If these machines are connected to your network, that's where the risk lies in wait. 

When you practice daily hygiene, (and let's hope you do) you have a routine for activities like showering and brushing your teeth.
The same concept applies to manage security or cyber "hygiene"; you create a system of routines and checks required to preserve your dealership's online health.
In today’s marketplace, the security of sensitive data is crucial to the sustainability of consumer trust and ultimately the success of any business. Nowhere is this concept more relevant than in the modern dealership ecosystem.

Physical Data Breach: Visual Hacking and Clean Desks. Updated advertising, new marketing campaigns, manufacturer incentives, and the creation of a sales-friendly environment in your showroom may increase traffic.  However, not every person who wanders in will be intent on buying a car. Most may be shopping, but not all may be shopping for a car: paper credit applications on desks, open credit reports on laptops, papers containing sensitive data in the trash, or keys left out on desks are a few of the items malicious actors are looking to exploit at your dealership.