Compliance Spotlight:
Testing Your Network Security
Over the last year we've talked to you about some of the basic principles of network security. There have been articles ranging from breaches to training. We try to keep you informed on the best techniques available to help you remain secure. This article is no different. It's about testing your network security.
There are some guidelines that every dealership should adhere to. Every dealership should have anti-virus and malware software, limit file sharing to mitigate viruses, and have personal fire walls on all local computers and tablets. But, how do you know if these measures are working? These things are all invisible, right? Wrong.
There are multiple tools available on the market to scan and test your network security. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of companies who conduct both internal and external scans and can help your IT staff or provider to achieve network security. We don't endorse any providers specifically, but we do endorse you using one of these solutions to test your network at least annually. This is a stated requirement from all of the Credit Reporting Agencies. If you are pulling credit reports, you should perform these scans to ensure you have a secure environment.
Many of you say that is why I use a secure provider when I pull a credit report. But if your network isn't secure, it doesn't matter how secure your provider is because you've already opened the door. Think of it like this, it's like locking the deadbolt on your front door to your house and leaving the key in the lock. Anyone who sees the key can open the lock.
As always, ProMax is willing to help you with your compliance needs. While we don't perform network security tests, we do provide multiple solutions for compliance. If you have any questions or you want to review your compliance program, contact your Dealer Support Specialist at 800-322-9034.
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