Autotech Connect launches Cybercrime Audits for independent garages

New service addresses escalating digital risks and growing cyberattack threats to the automotive aftermarket

Autotech Connect launches Cybercrime Audits for independent garages

Autotech Connect has introduced its Cybercrime Audit service, aiming to help independent garages identify and understand their increasing digital risks. This proactive initiative offers the automotive aftermarket a defensive measure against escalating cyberattacks, focusing on prevention through awareness.

Cybercrime poses a rapidly growing threat to the automotive aftermarket. According to the UK Government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025, 43% of UK businesses experienced a cybersecurity breach or attack in the past year, with small and medium-sized enterprises accounting for 81% of targets. As the sector increasingly relies on connected tools, cloud-based systems, and digital infrastructure, many garages may underestimate their exposure.

Darren Dowling, Client Services Director at Autotech Connect, commented, “Most independent garages aren’t aware of how exposed they are. These businesses rely on a growing range of connected technologies… but few have the defences in place to match.”

Nationwide Cybercrime Audits Autotech Connect’s new audit programme is designed to identify vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them. These nationwide audits provide garage owners and workshop managers with an evidence-based assessment of their digital exposure, covering hardware, email security, employee awareness, and cloud application usage.

The 32-point audit evaluates a workshop’s digital infrastructure across several areas. This includes vulnerability assessments of routers, firewalls, and firmware, alongside checks on IT setup, patching, and system updates. Email security, including spam filters and encryption, is reviewed, and dark web scans are performed to detect compromised credentials. The audit also assesses cloud application security, tests user awareness through simulated phishing attacks, and examines endpoint/antivirus protection, along with overall network and Wi-Fi security.

Dowling added, “Today’s attack surfaces stretch far beyond the office desktop. Threats like phishing, business email compromise, and supply chain attacks aren’t limited to large corporations.” He noted that a breach at an independent garage could expose customer records, supplier information, or potentially compromise vehicle control systems, citing the Arnold Clark cyberattack as an example of potential operational and reputational damage.

Autotech Connect’s Cybercrime Audits are part of Autotech Group’s mission to support the aftermarket in navigating technological changes and improving resilience through practical, preventative measures.

For further information visit www.autotechconnect.co.uk

Have your say!

0 0

Lost Password

Please enter your username or email address. You will receive a link to create a new password via email.