Cybercriminals have had their sights set on logistics for some time. With widespread challenges surrounding the pandemic, logistics and shipping companies have become “high impact” targets for criminals. Why? The logistics industry is strained from shortages and backlogs; and criminals focus their energy on targets that are lucrative and have a large impact on the global economy.
The Value of Logistics Data
Supply chains are part of a complex global system where data and information are shared through system integrations. The interconnectedness of the logistics industry creates multiple points where sensitive information is susceptible to a cyberattack. The more links in a supply chain, the more vulnerable the data becomes.
What kind of data is valuable? Inventory data, delivery, and arrival dates/locations, and operational data involving air, ground, and maritime cargo transportation; just to name a few. Typically, criminals will break into a company’s system and hold the data for ransom until it receives payment.
The effects of cyberattacks on the supply chain can be detrimental to all parties involved. Therefore, it is critical that logistics companies invest in ways to safeguard data. The following list provides some of the ways in which supply chain security can be improved.
Protect Your Internal Systems
To protect your internal systems against malicious software, or malware, install firewalls and virus-detection programs. These block malware access to your systems. Be sure to only use tested and trusted software. This software should have a strong security system with password protection, multi-authentication, and the ability for a user to take control.
In addition, be sure to regularly back up your files and databases to protect your data and information from a cyberattack.
Train Your Employees
Cybercriminals have adopted smarter and stealthier tactics to dupe users and businesses. It is imperative that all personnel be trained on the proper cybersecurity procedures. Employees should be aware of cyber interference or hacking attempts. Educate employees on the dangers of opening suspicious emails, as well as, clicking on unknown URLs, links, or attachments. Criminals often mirror email addresses, and invoices, and use text messaging to hack into mobile devices. It is a best practice to prevent employees from downloading unauthorized software and apps which could breach your security walls.
Bottom line—if the message seems strange, do not click!
Collaborate with Your Supply Chain Partners
Many times, cyber threats come from partners within your supply chain network. To increase efficiency in the logistics industry, you and those in your network must access shared online platforms. Therefore, you need to be cognizant of new vulnerabilities that arise. Even though you cannot control others’ security measures, you can choose to work with partners that conduct regular security audits or have external security certifications. You could also devise a contract that requires your partners to adhere to basic cybersecurity measures.
Hire a Cybersecurity Expert
While the aforementioned methods will significantly reduce the cyber risks your company may face, the
While the aforementioned methods will significantly reduce cyber risks, the threat can never be fully eliminated. A skilled cybersecurity expert is trained to protect data and keep system vulnerabilities at bay. They are aware of the latest security risks and protective measures. And in the instance that your systems are breached, they conduct a full investigation and create a plan of action.
New cyber threats pop up almost every day; so, improving your company’s cybersecurity should be a high priority. The best logistics companies are well-aware of all possible cyber risks and use the necessary measures to protect their data and systems.
Evans Distribution Systems has an in-house information technology team that is dedicated to managing our data systems. If you have experienced a cyberattack or need to talk to an IT expert, contact us at 1-800-OK -EVANS or sales@evansdist.com.