Updated 12:45 PM CDT, Tue July 22, 2025
Published Under: Auto Salvage Cybersecurity Managed IT
Cyberattacks are rising, and auto recyclers are now on the radar. In a special URG podcast episode, Forbin’s Managed IT expert Jeremy Heidemann shares what recyclers need to know, what attackers are after, and what you can do right now to protect your yard.
Why Auto Recyclers Are a Prime Target
You might think, “Why would hackers come after me? I just run a recycling yard.” But here’s the truth:
Your business is digital and valuable. Between customer records, parts pricing, auction platforms, billing software, and inventory databases, you’ve got exactly what cybercriminals want: access, opportunity, and a low defense line.
As Jeremy Heidemann explained on the URG podcast, today’s auto recyclers face the same cybersecurity threats as big retailers and hospitals—but without the budget or in-house IT team.
Don’t Rely on Software Vendors Alone
Jeremy’s message was clear: don’t assume your software is secure just because it’s industry-specific.
Whether it’s your inventory system, auction tools, or customer database, many third-party vendors don’t offer adequate protection. If you’ve never reviewed their security practices, or don’t even know if they offer data encryption, you could be at risk.
“Too many recyclers assume their vendors are covering security. That’s a dangerous assumption.”
— Jeremy Heidemann
What you can do:
- Ask your vendors about encryption, MFA, and compliance.
- Review contracts for data breach liability.
- Don’t skip IT due diligence—especially with cloud-based platforms.
5 Simple Ways to Boost Cybersecurity This Week
Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be complex or expensive. In the episode, Jeremy laid out five quick wins every auto recycler can implement immediately:
- Use strong, unique passwords (and consider a password manager).
- Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) everywhere you can.
- Update software and systems regularly (no skipping updates).
- Train your team to spot phishing emails and suspicious links.
- Back up your data—regularly, offsite, and encrypted.
Need a checklist? Download our FREE Cybersecurity Quick Guide for Auto Recyclers at the end of this post.
Download the Checklist
What a Secure Auto Recycling Tech Setup Looks Like
A secure business isn’t just about having antivirus. Here’s what a cyber-safe infrastructure includes, based on Jeremy’s advice:
✔ Network Segmentation
Keep guest Wi-Fi separate from your business systems.
✔ Endpoint Protection
Use firewalls, antivirus, and 24/7 system monitoring.
✔ Secure Backups
Store backups in a secure, offsite environment—and test them.
✔ Physical Security
Protect access to your servers, workstations, and connected devices.
Pro Tip: Not sure how your infrastructure stacks up? Forbin offers free IT risk assessments specifically for auto recyclers.
Schedule a FREE Cybersecurity Risk Assessment with Jeremy
Cybersecurity for the Auto Recycling Industry: 4 Specific Tips
What makes cybersecurity different for auto recyclers? Jeremy broke it down:
1. Protect Your Inventory System
Ensure your inventory and customer data is encrypted and only accessible to authorized staff.
2. Lock Down Auction Platform Integrations
Verify that auction platforms have secure login processes and do not expose your data to third parties.
3. Use VPNs for Remote Access
Remote work or mobile logins should always go through a secure, encrypted VPN.
4. Control Employee Access
Use role-based access so employees only see what they need to see. Remove old accounts promptly.
The #1 Takeaway from the Podcast
If you only take one action after reading this blog or listening to the podcast, make it this: Schedule a cybersecurity audit.
“Don’t wait for a breach to find your gaps. Know where you’re vulnerable now—and fix it before it costs you.”
— Jeremy Heidemann
Download: Cybersecurity Checklist for Auto Recyclers
Get our free, one-page guide you can use during staff training, IT audits, or even vendor evaluations.
Included in the checklist:
- Firewall best practices
- MFA setup
- Phishing prevention tips
- Backup testing timeline
- Cloud and vendor risk review
Download the Checklist Now
Final Thoughts: Let’s Lock Down Your Yard
Auto recyclers are known for grit, innovation, and resilience. But in a digital world, you need cyber resilience too.
Managed IT services from Forbin provide:
- Tailored cybersecurity for the recycling industry
- Microsoft 365 setup and secure cloud tools
- 24/7 support, monitoring, and compliance help
Don’t let a hacker shut you down.
Start protecting your business today.
Book Your Free Cybersecurity Risk Assessment
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