Candace Marley’s Perspective on Cybersecurity Risks
Candace Marley, an owner-operator based in Iowa with over ten years of driving experience, recognizes that most trucks function like advanced computers on wheels. While the potential for cyberattacks is a concern among truckers, it is not the primary issue on her mind compared to other challenges like downtime and traffic. Marley mentioned her preference to avoid trucks with sophisticated computer interfaces, referring to her 2020 Peterbilt 579.
The Lack of Awareness Around Cybersecurity Insurance
An entire industry is dedicated to assisting fleets in managing financial risks from incidents ranging from accidents to natural disasters, but cybersecurity insurance is often overlooked. Marley, like many of her peers, has not encountered information about such insurance options in the trucking sector.
Recognizing Cybersecurity Insurance in the Industry
Cybersecurity insurance is becoming a growing topic of interest for the trucking community, and according to Joe Ohr, COO of the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), smaller fleets and owner-operators like Marley may benefit significantly. While NMFTA does not endorse a definitive stance on whether carriers should obtain this insurance, it provides guidance for weighing the costs and benefits involved.
The Real Threats Are Often Office-Based
Many discussions surrounding trucking and cybersecurity insurance focus on extreme hypotheticals, such as hacking into a truck’s systems. However, Ohr points out that the greatest threats often originate from office environments. An office computer hack can effectively halt truck operations just as much as a vehicle component hack would. Both large and small trucking operations are vulnerable to such attacks, highlighting the need for vigilance.
Emerging Cybersecurity Concerns
Experts note that cybercriminals are not industry-specific; instead, they look for vulnerabilities in networks. Therefore, any trucking operation that relies on technology could face significant cyber risks if not properly mitigated. Despite the current lack of targeted hacks against trucks, organizations like NMFTA are working to identify and address vulnerabilities in the trucking sector. With trucks containing multiple connection points, they function like mobile office spaces.
Challenges of Cyber Insurance for Smaller Fleets
While there are no specific insurance policies tailored to trucking cybersecurity, the growing conversation around the topic is beneficial. Key areas where insurance may be applicable include cargo theft, which often begins with online scams. David Nihart, CEO of Nihart Transportation, agrees that scams pose a major threat but has confidence in the protective measures provided by his partner, Landstar.
Insufficient Awareness and Preparedness in the Industry
According to Travelers, fewer than half of transportation businesses (48%) have cybersecurity insurance, and many have not yet acknowledged the vulnerabilities within their systems. One struggle in securing this type of insurance is the lack of universal availability. Companies that provide trucking-specific insurance often do not offer revenue-related cyber coverage. The industry may need a significant cyber incident to catalyze deeper discussions around this essential issue.
