Cybercrime a threat to fleet operators

As the transport and logistics industry becomes increasingly connected, the risks associated with cyberattacks are growing rapidly. According to Wichard Sullwald, co-founder and head of technology at CtrlFleet, cybercrime now poses a tangible threat to fleet operators and logistics companies across southern Africa. Sullwald said two very real risks stood out in today’s digital environment. “Having driver instructions driven by automated systems can lead to a vehicle being directed by a malicious actor with the intent of either theft of a load or theft of the vehicle. The most vulnerable party in this case is, of course, the driver. Second, as with any digitised industry, the potential for financial fraud remains an ever-present concern.” He said that as the sector increasingly adopted digital tools such as electronic proof of delivery, fleet telematics and customs integration, the question of how to balance accessibility with data protection had become central. “Remaining practical about the operational procedures being put in place is always the best and most trusted line of defence,” he told Freight News. “The benefit of a digitised environment is transparency, and so I would argue that accessibility is not necessarily a direct trade-off with vulnerability. What is important is to ensure that all users with access are aware of a shared responsibility to ensure that the system is accurate and not being used maliciously.” While the sophistication of cybercriminals continues to evolve, logistics operators are urged to strengthen their defences and embed cybersecurity awareness into daily practice. Looking ahead, Sullwald said the ability to verify the authenticity of data and communication would become the most critical defence in an AI-driven world. “It is hard to guess at the future of cybercrime in general, but the ability to verify authenticity will likely be the most essential safeguard required as automation and artificial intelligence become more deeply integrated into logistics operations.” LV