Automotive Compliance Consultants contends dealerships run the same risks as do national merchandisers such as Target and Home Depot that have been struck by hackers in recent months.

Because cybercrimes are on the increase, Automotive Compliance Consultants and cyber-security partner Nuspire Networks will discuss dealership security with managers at the National Automobile Dealers Association Convention in San Francisco later this month.

Not only is their risk high, but Automotive Compliance Consultants president Terry Dortch says unfortunately many business owners like dealers believe they’re not likely targets.

However, a survey by the National Cyber Security Alliance points out that 30 percent of small-to-medium sized business respondents believed they were more likely to be struck in the chest by lightning before their computer systems fall victim to an internet attack.

“Nuspire Networks reports that network gateways and computer ports are pinged for unauthorized access in increasing frequency. Off-the-shelf virus and malware software are a useful first step, but usually not sophisticated enough for today’s hackers,” Dortch said.

“No dealer wants the cost and embarrassment a data breach can create, and because the risk is ever-increasing we urge dealers to get informed and know their protection options before a breach happens and they have to learn the very hard way,” he continued.

Third-party access to the dealer management system for ancillary data applications needed by CRM, data mining, lead-generation systems, for example, are making dealership networks increasingly active targets for cyber criminals, Dortch added.

Automotive Compliance Consultants specializes in dealership and auto finance compliance, providing in-dealership consultations and analysis, compliance audits and training, and offers solutions for all compliance needs.

For information, contact Dortch at terry_dortch@compliantnow.com or visit www.compliantnow.com.