Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity threats don't always start with someone hacking into your network. Increasingly, criminals are targeting everyday dealership business processes, including vendor payments, invoices, banking changes, and accounting workflows. In this blog, we explore why cybersecurity is just as much an accounting and operational responsibility as it is an IT responsibility. Learn how payment fraud happens, why dealerships can be attractive targets, and how strong internal controls, verification procedures, employee awareness, and collaboration between IT, Accounting, Operations, and Leadership can help protect your dealership from costly fraud.

Data is only valuable when dealerships can turn it into action. Following the VizAuto Customer Summit, OWL Director of Operations Shannon Davis shares key takeaways on how dealers are using data, reporting, and AI to improve processes, uncover opportunities, and make better operational decisions.

Today's dealerships depend on technology across every department, from DMS and OEM applications to service lane tools, accounting systems, networks, and cybersecurity. But managing an increasingly complex technology environment can pull valuable time and resources away from running the dealership. In this blog post, we explore what Managed IT Services really mean for dealerships, the difference between fully managed and co-managed IT, and why more dealer groups are choosing an automotive-focused MSP. Learn how the right IT partner can help reduce downtime, strengthen cybersecurity, support dealership technology, and provide the strategic guidance needed to scale and plan for future growth.

Gain an inside look at OWL Automotive Consulting's dealership IT assessment process. Learn how our team evaluates network infrastructure, cybersecurity, hardware, and hidden technology risks to help dealerships improve performance, strengthen security, and prepare for future growth.

Planning a DMS implementation is about much more than migrating data and training employees, it's also one of the most important opportunities to strengthen your dealership's cybersecurity. During a DMS conversion, critical business systems, customer information, financial data, and user permissions are all being reviewed, making security a key part of a successful implementation. In this article, learn why cybersecurity should be built into every phase of your DMS project, from planning and user access to network security, backups, multi-factor authentication, and employee training. Discover common security risks dealerships overlook during DMS implementations, practical best practices to reduce risk, and how a dealership-focused technology partner can help ensure your conversion is secure, compliant, and positioned for long-term success. Whether you're moving to CDK, Tekion, Reynolds & Reynolds, or another platform, these cybersecurity strategies can help protect your dealership.

Ransomware is one of the most dangerous cyber threats today, targeting individuals and businesses alike. Understanding how it works and how to protect yourself is essential in today's digital world.

Beware of Toll Scams! With the rise of Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) technology, scammers are getting creative. From fake toll invoices to phishing emails, they're finding new ways to trick you into giving up your personal info and hard-earned money. Want to know how to stay safe? Discover the latest scams and learn essential tips to protect yourself from these digital highway robbers. Don't get caught off guard—read on to stay one step ahead! Your security on the road starts with staying informed.