Key Cyber Security Issues That Fleet Managers Need To Be Aware Of

Fleet managers are used to thinking about safety on the road. But today, a growing share of risk is happening behind the scenes—through data breaches, system hacks, or vulnerabilities in connected vehicle tech.

As vehicles become more digitised and fleets rely more heavily on software, apps and telematics, cyber security is no longer an IT issue—it's a fleet safety issue.

At SharpDrive, we support organisations across Australia and New Zealand with training that helps people identify and respond to risk—including the human factors in cyber incidents. This guide outlines key cyber threats facing fleet-based businesses and offers practical steps to help you stay ahead of them.

Why Cyber Security Matters for Fleets

It’s not just about stolen data. Cyber threats can disrupt operations, jeopardise driver safety, and damage business reputation. In recent years, both Australian and New Zealand transport sectors have reported increased cyber incidents affecting logistics, emergency management, and field operations.

Let’s look at the bigger picture:

• In 2022–2023, the average cost of a cyber incident for Australian businesses was over $71,000 for medium-sized organisations, up from the previous year [Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC)].
• In New Zealand, transport networks have been specifically listed as critical infrastructure at risk of cyber attack [New Zealand National Cyber Security Centre].
• Connected vehicles, GPS tracking systems, and third-party routing apps are now commonplace—but they all create new entry points for hackers if not properly secured.

Key Cyber Security Issues Facing Fleet Managers

Here are the top risks fleet managers should be monitoring today:

1. Hacked Telematics and Tracking Systems

GPS tracking and route planning software help increase efficiency—but if left unsecured, they can be manipulated. Hackers can intercept signals, spoof locations, or shut down routing systems, interrupting deliveries or field work.

Telematics can also contain sensitive driver data. If not encrypted or properly controlled, this data may be exposed.

What you can do:

• Use software with strong encryption and two-factor authentication
• Work with reputable providers
• Regularly audit access permissions across apps and platforms

2. Phishing Attacks Targeting Drivers or Admin Teams

Many successful hacks begin with something simple—like a driver clicking a malicious link while checking a job sheet or logging in to a portal. These phishing emails often look legitimate and can trick even experienced users.

What you can do:

• Train drivers and admin staff to spot suspicious emails, attachments or fake logins
• Teach basic cyber hygiene through your safety programme
• Consider incorporating cyber awareness modules into driver training

3. Compromised Mobile Devices

Tablets and phones are now used to check assignments, communicate, submit vehicle inspections, and even operate fuel cards or toll payments. If a device is lost or hacked, an intruder may gain access to highly sensitive platforms.

What you can do:

• Require screen locks and strong passwords on all devices
• Enable remote wipe and tracking
• Avoid using personal devices for work-related apps unless they meet security standards

4. Vehicle Software Vulnerabilities

Modern vehicles increasingly rely on software to control brakes, steering and diagnostics. That means that if a vehicle’s digital control systems are vulnerable, it’s not just data at risk—it’s driver safety. Research has shown that many connected vehicles are still exposed to remote hacking.

What you can do:

• Ensure manufacturers provide regular software updates for vehicles
• Work with IT to separate operational vehicle networks from internet-facing systems
• Ask telematics providers about security testing and safeguards

5. Poor Password Practices & Shared Accounts

It’s common for driver tablets or portal logins to be shared between multiple users. That increases the risk of breaches—especially if passwords are reused or unsecured.

What you can do:

• Enforce strong, unique passwords for all logins
• Use individual accounts where possible instead of shared access
• Update credentials when staff or drivers leave the business

A Real-World Insight

You’ve got a team working across regional New Zealand or Australia with GPS-tracked utes and mobile job dispatch. One afternoon, a driver receives what looks like a job notification link via SMS—but it redirects to a fake login page. Credentials are stolen, and within hours, your admin dashboard is accessed by an external user.

Now your routes, driver locations, and contact details are exposed. This could have been prevented by two minutes of cyber awareness training.

Make Cyber Awareness Part of Safety Culture

Cyber security doesn’t need to sit in a separate policy folder. It should be built into your existing safety systems. If an app affects route planning, if a device collects job status updates, or if a login controls job dispatch, it’s a safety tool that deserves protection.

What good cyber safety practice looks like:

• Providing cyber awareness training as part of onboarding and toolbox talks
• Including digital risks in incident reports and hazard assessments
• Training drivers in safe mobile usage across all tech platforms
• Asking your IT support team to run annual cyber safety audits

Final Thought: Safety Goes Beyond the Road

As technology evolves, so do the risks. But most cyber threats can be managed with awareness, training, and a culture of shared responsibility.

At SharpDrive, we’re here to help you take a proactive approach—whether it's on the road or online. Our digital training platform is built to support real people in real roles, with content that’s easy to access and easy to understand.

Explore our full range of driver safety and cyber awareness modules:

• SharpDrive driver training programmes
• Contact us to discuss team-wide training plans
• Good safety management covers both physical and digital aspects.

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