The boss of a recruitment company has warned that the software used on vehicles is only going to get more locked-in, which in his view will, ironically, mean attacks from hostile actors are likely to get more frequent and aggressive.
According to Gavin White, CEO of Autotech will in turn make motor trade businesses even more of a target as hackers want to pick the ‘low hanging’ data fruit.
“A lot of vehicle manufacturers are weaponizing technology, and that’s not great for consumer choice” he said. “We have to come up with technology solutions and business strategies, because a cyber attack could easily kill a small business”.
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The announcement came at the launch of a garage-specific division devoted to the growing cyber security market. Called ‘Autotech Connect’, the new section has secured partnerships with a number of providers in the field who will provide expertise and knowledge gleaned from the motor trade, and from other industries alike.
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“Our intention is to help aftermarket businesses understand the threats and opportunities created by software and through our partners, help them navigate the challenges with the aim of reducing risk, increasing productivity and exploring potential solutions,” added White.
The suite of products and services available at launch include cyber security audits that can be used by even the smallest business as well as specialist insurance that can protect against hacks. It isn’t all dystopian gloom though as Autotech has signed a deal with Realware, a firm that supplies ‘assisted reality’ headsets, which it hopes will soon be compatible with diagnostic platforms that offer a master tech contact service.
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