While nearshoring and the use of artificial intelligence dominate the expert discussion, telematics expert Arealcontrol warns of an often overlooked danger: the inadequate security of mobile devices in operational use. From an European point of view all IT- & Telematics solutions must be checked security wise, especially if hosted in public US-clouds. The keyword is “sovereign cloud”.
Scanners, tablets, and handhelds form the technological backbone of every modern supply chain today. But it is precisely these devices, which are often in the hands of large numbers of employees, that are increasingly becoming a gateway for industrial espionage and ransomware attacks. Mobile devices as a security vulnerability "We are seeing a dangerous discrepancy," explained a spokesperson for Arealcontrol. "Companies invest large sums of money in securing their server infrastructure, but neglect the endpoints in the warehouse and on the road. If a handheld device does not have in-depth firmware security, it offers attackers direct access to the internal company network - often bypassing traditional security mechanisms."
It's hard to believe, but a significant amount of driver communication takes place via messaging apps like WhatsApp. This is grossly negligent when transporting sensitive goods, as addresses are known, and often other shipment information as well as the messenger's location services are also accessible. A dedicated app with clear, secure, and encrypted data transmission, such as the ArealPilot 360° app, complies with all data protection regulations and thus also protects management and employees within the framework of organizational liability.
System-critical security instead of standard hardware Arealcontrol counters this risk with a specialized solution. The rugged Android devices it offers are not only physically protected against extreme conditions, but also feature integrated firmware mobile device management (FW-MDM). Unlike conventional MDM solutions, which only operate at the software level, the firmware approach enables in-depth control down to the hardware configuration. This prevents manipulated operating systems or unauthorized processes from taking control of the device.
In times when a supply chain is only as strong as its weakest link, Arealcontrol calls for a return to basic security standards in hardware procurement. "The question today is no longer whether IT will be attacked, but how quickly a company can prevent its end devices from being compromised," the company concludes.
Further information on Arealcontrol's approach can be found here. Further information on demand.
