New Year, New Cybersecurity How to Kickstart 2025 with OWL Automotive Consulting

Kickstart 2025 with OWL

New Year, New Cybersecurity: How to Kickstart 2025 with OWL Automotive Consulting 

Happy New Year, automotive dealerships!  As we roll into 2025, it’s time to put the brakes on any security risks and hit the gas on strengthening your dealership’s cybersecurity. The holiday rush and year-end deals may be behind us, but as we all know, cyber threats don’t take a vacation. In fact, with more online activity, sensitive customer data flowing through your systems, and business deals ramping up, now is the perfect time to make cybersecurity your New Year’s resolution. 

So, let’s put our helmets on and get ready to tackle these top strategies to help you rev up your dealership’s protection this year with OWL. 

1. Start with a New Year’s Security Audit 

Before you rev up for 2025, take a pit stop and check under the hood. A thorough security audit is the perfect way to ensure your network, systems, and software are ready for the year ahead. Apply any security patches you might have missed and address any vulnerabilities that could put your dealership at risk. It’s like making sure your car has fresh oil and working brakes before hitting the road! 

2. Make Customer Data Your Priority 

2025 is the year you double down on protecting sensitive customer data. Think of it as your dealership’s precious cargo! Encrypt everything — from information on the move to data that’s sitting still. Ensure all online transactions are secured with HTTPS and follow Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS) to stay on track. Your customers trust you with their personal info, and it’s your job to keep it safe! 

3. Boost Security with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) 

This year don’t just lock the door to your dealership’s data — make it a double lock! Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds a layer of security to all your critical systems. Whether your employees are working on-site or remotely, MFA ensures that even if someone tries to slip past your defenses, they’ll have to jump through multiple hoops to gain access. 

4. Secure Remote Access — Work from Anywhere, Safely 

With remote work continuing to be the norm, you need to make sure your employees are using secure Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) when accessing company data. It’s like installing a security system in your car so no one can break in while you’re parked at a coffee shop. You’re still good to go, but you’re protected! 

5. Keep an Eye on Payment Systems 

Your payment systems are the lifeblood of your dealership, so let’s make sure they’re bulletproof. In 2025, ramp up monitoring of these systems to catch any fraudulent transactions before they can do damage. Ensure all systems are encrypted and follow PCI standards to keep your financials in check. 

6. Train Your Team to Spot Phishing and Social Engineering - with OWL

A well-trained team is your first line of defense against phishing scams and social engineering tricks. This year, invest in regular training sessions to help your employees recognize suspicious emails, phone calls, and messages. Practice makes perfect, so run phishing simulations and keep them on their toes. A well-prepared team can stop cybercriminals in their tracks! 

7. Review Access Controls 

As we head into the new year, take a good look at who has access to what in your dealership. Apply the principle of least privilege (if they don’t need it, don’t give it!) and review permissions regularly. Don’t forget to remove access for seasonal or temporary employees once they’ve clocked out for the last time — it’s a small step that can make a big difference in your security. 

8. Back Up Data Like a Pro 

Data backups aren’t just for rainy days — they’re for when disaster strikes. This year, make sure all your critical data is backed up daily, both onsite and offsite. Test your backup systems regularly so you can be confident that if something goes wrong, you’ll be back in business in no time. Think of it as having a spare tire — you hope you never need it, but you’ll be glad you have it! 

9. Protect Your Website Against Cyber Threats 

Your dealership’s website is like the front door to your business — make sure it’s locked and secured. Protect it from cyber threats like Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks, keep all software and plugins updated, and install a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to fend off malicious traffic. A secure website keeps customers happy and hackers out! 

10. Have a Solid Incident Response Plan (And Practice It!) 

No one wants to think about a security breach, but it’s better to be prepared than caught off guard. Make sure you’ve got a solid incident response plan in place for 2025 and practice it with your team, so everyone knows their role in case of a breach. Think of it as a fire drill — knowing what to do ahead of time can make all the difference. 

At OWL Automotive Consulting, we know how tough it can be to keep up with ever-changing cyber threats. That’s why we’re here to help your dealership stay ahead of the curve and start 2025 with a turbocharged cybersecurity strategy. By partnering with OWL, you’ll have the expert support you need to safeguard your systems, your customer data, and your business — so you can focus on what matters most: growth and success. 

Here’s to a safe, secure, and successful 2025! ?? Let’s make this year your dealership’s safest year yet!