Clark: Why fleets can’t afford to ignore cybersecurity in 2025
Key takeaways
- Fleets face rising cyber risks from back-office fraud to connected truck attacks, making security a business-critical priority.
- 95% of breaches exploit old flaws—fast patching and updates are vital to keeping fleet systems and data secure.
- Training drivers and staff to spot scams and phishing is one of the strongest defenses against costly cyberattacks.
Fleet owners and operators are no strangers to tough economic conditions. As a recent FleetOwner article pointed out: “Freight markets remain flat and uncertain, with fleets navigating prolonged unprofitability.” In times like these, leaders naturally seek ways to reduce costs, streamline operations, and maintain stability.
But one area that should never be overlooked—or sacrificed—is cybersecurity.
Technology adoption is often seen as a path to efficiency, yet fleets that skimp on digital protection expose themselves to enormous risk. Cyberattacks are not only on the rise but also becoming far more sophisticated, capable of deceiving even the most seasoned employees. According to Check Point’s 2025 Cybersecurity Report, global cyberattacks surged 44% in the past year. Threat actors are now harnessing generative AI to fuel disinformation campaigns and deploying more advanced infostealer malware. Even worse, 95% of exploits target pre-existing vulnerabilities, underscoring the critical importance of diligent patch management.
And for fleets, the attack surface is wide:
- Back-office functions like accounts payable and receivable
- Freight fraud and cargo theft schemes
- On-road risks as hackers target connected vehicle systems
From ransomware and data breaches to remote hijacking of vehicles, the threats are expanding rapidly—even insider risks, whether intentional or accidental, can’t be ignored. The challenge may seem overwhelming, but with the right strategy, fleets can significantly reduce exposure.
10 steps to strengthen fleet cybersecurity
Even industries with deep IT investments have suffered costly breaches, so no business can afford to be complacent. For fleets, building a solid cybersecurity framework requires both internal diligence and the right external expertise. Here are 10 best practices to get started:
1. Ongoing employee training
Teach staff to spot phishing attempts, AI-driven scams, and suspicious activity. Reinforce the importance of reporting threats immediately. Regular refreshers help your team stay alert.
2. Regular software updates
Don’t delay patches. Ensure all operating systems, apps, and IoT devices are updated promptly to close known vulnerabilities.
3. Network security
Strengthen defenses with firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and encryption protocols.
4. Controlled access
Limit system and data access to only those who need it. Require multi-factor authentication (MFA) to safeguard login credentials.
5. Data encryption
Encrypt sensitive data both at rest and in transit to prevent unauthorized use.
6. Backup and recovery
Back up critical data regularly. A strong recovery plan ensures business continuity after cyber incidents—or even natural disasters.
7. Continuous monitoring
Implement tools and processes to detect unusual activity in real time and respond quickly.
8. Incident response planning
Just like disaster recovery for storms or outages, fleets need a tested, up-to-date plan for cyber breaches.
9. Vendor risk management
Third-party partners are a common weak point; 62% of breaches originate with vendors, according to Verizon. Assess and monitor supplier security practices carefully.
10. Physical security
Protect vehicles, servers, and other infrastructure from unauthorized physical access because digital safety depends on real-world safeguards, too.
The best defense is a strong offense
Cyberattacks are no longer hypothetical threats for fleet operators; they’re an everyday reality. With connected vehicle technology growing more complex and AI supercharging criminal tactics, the risks will only intensify.
The fleets that thrive will be those that take cybersecurity as seriously as maintenance, compliance, and safety. By adopting proactive, layered defenses and embedding cybersecurity into daily operations, you can protect data, people, and equipment while ensuring the resilience of your business for years to come.
Now is the time to act. Strengthen your defenses today, and keep your fleet moving safely into tomorrow.
About the Author
Jane Clark
Senior VP of Operations
Jane Clark is the senior vice president of operations for NationaLease. Prior to joining NationaLease, Jane served as the area vice president for Randstad, one of the nation’s largest recruitment agencies, and before that, she served in management posts with QPS Companies, Pro Staff, and Manpower, Inc.