Cloud Vendor Security: Is Your Fleet Really Secure?
The trucking industry's shift to cloud-based operations has created new efficiencies—and new vulnerabilities. According to CrowdStrike's 2024 Global Threat Report, cyber attacks targeting cloud systems increased by 75% in 2023, with attacks specifically exploiting cloud features and access points rising by 110%.
The Hidden Dangers of Cloud Convenience
When cybercriminals breach a single cloud service provider, they potentially gain access to hundreds, if not thousands, of companies at once. In 2023, we saw this play out with the MOVEit and CDK Global breach, where one vulnerability affected thousands of companies and dealerships simultaneously.
Your Vulnerabilities Are Only as Strong as Your Vendors'
The NMFTA reports three critical areas where cloud security often fails:
- Third-party access management - controlling and monitoring how outside vendors, contractors, and partners can access your company's systems and data.
- API security vulnerabilities - weaknesses in the connections that allow different software systems to communicate with each other.
- Data backup and recovery gaps - weaknesses in your system for saving copies of important information and getting that information back after something goes wrong.
Real-World Impact
Recent attacks have severely disrupted trucking operations across the country. Companies suddenly lost access to their fleet management systems, leaving dispatchers unable to track loads or communicate with drivers. Electronic logging devices went dark, creating compliance risks. Customer portals and financial systems became inaccessible, bringing billing and operations to a standstill.
The Cost of Poor Cloud Security
According to CrowdStrike, cloud-based attacks have increased significantly, with attackers increasingly targeting cloud systems to maximize their impact and potential financial gain. These attacks can be particularly devastating for trucking companies, as they often affect multiple critical systems simultaneously - from dispatch to ELD compliance to customer billing. The impact extends beyond immediate financial losses to include business interruption, recovery costs, and long-term reputational damage.
Securing Your Company Operations
Securing your cloud operations requires a comprehensive approach. Regular vendor security assessments form the foundation, supported by careful monitoring of how third parties access your systems. Strict API security measures prevent unauthorized access to your data. Perhaps most critically, maintaining offline backups of essential data and having a clear incident response plan can mean the difference between a minor hiccough and a catastrophic shutdown.
Can Your Company Survive a Cloud Breach?
Consider these questions:
- Do you know all your cloud service providers?
- Can you operate if cloud services go down?
- Are your vendors' security practices documented?
- Do you have incident response plans for breaches?
The IT ArchiTeks Approach
Our comprehensive cloud security strategy begins with a thorough assessment of your current cloud vendor relationships and security posture. We then implement multiple layers of protection to make sure you can continue operations even if cloud services are compromised. Our continuous monitoring catches emerging threats before they can impact your business, while our incident response planning ensures you're prepared for any scenario.
Don't wait until a cloud breach disrupts your operations. Reach out today to schedule a cyber strategy session today!








