site audits that come within the standard period. It saves so much time and effort. “ Stuart added: “There is nothing in the UK like this. It is a good thing for garages and it's also a good thing for vehicle manufacturers and also the Government, because this will have an impact on vehicle theft. It is also good for consumer confidence. A motorist will be able to look up a garage that is accredited to the SERMI standard and say ‘I know that garage business has been checked properly against a DBS and other integrity checks’. This is a positive tick in every aspect.” For more information, visit: https://independentgarageassoci ation.co.uk/trade-topics/sermi/ Clear understanding Of course, the launch of the scheme is only the beginning. Laurence Abbott, Managing Director at Autotech Connect commented: “As the roll-out of SERMI across Europe commences, the IGA has created a UK framework enabling independent businesses the same access to SERMI as their European counterparts. “Under the proposed UK framework, garages will be audited and accredited to access securityrelated repair and maintenance information (SERMI). Without this access, many independent businesses will be unable to retrieve vital diagnostic information, training, and installation methods. Consequently, they face being left out in the cold and losing customers. “Having this access may, however, be a double-edged sword for many. The increasing number of digital touchpoints on a vehicle is expanding the attack surface for malicious hackers to exploit and infiltrate a garage's systems, exposing customer data and the freedom to access OEM data could represent a significant risk for many. Car-generated data is considered highly lucrative, with expectations that data-based services will provide billions in additional revenue for vehicle manufacturers. Unfortunately, as a consequence, it is making the industry an increasingly attractive target to cybercriminals. “Any hack raises the question of liability. Who is ultimately responsible for the breach and will business insurance cover the cost? Potentially not. Insurance companies recognise the significant risk and business policies could be jeopardised if the right digital infrastructure to mitigate an attack is not in place. “So many automotive companies have been devasted by cybercrime as the financial and data losses have inflicted irreparable damage. Simply reacting to an attack is not the answer. Implementing a strong digital defence, which is regularly tested and updated is the goal. This is where, currently, the weak spot may be for the independent sector. Put simply, many independent aftermarket businesses are dangerously unprepared for the risks brought on by connected vehicles.” Laurence concluded: “While working against the backdrop of an ongoing skills shortage, many have had little time to embark on training or invest in new technology and are at risk of exposing themselves to cybercrime. Therefore, while access to SERMI will allow freedom for UK independent garages, the process needs to ensure that these businesses have robust defences in place and a clear understanding of the cybercrime risks to safeguard their future survival.” 12 AFTERMARKET FEBRUARY 2024 BIG ISSUE www.aftermarketonline.net For more information, visit www.autotechconnect.co.uk For more on SERMI, turn to Repairify on page 28. SERMI checklist To prepare for SERMI, the IMI suggests that aftermarket professionals could: • Gain Awareness and Understanding: Stay informed about SERMI's requirements • Training and Certification: Invest in training for technicians • Engage with Industry Bodies: Collaborate with organisations like the IMI, IGA, and IAAF • Upgrade Technology and Equipment: Adapt to necessary technology when required • Develop Partnerships: Form collaborative networks, including manufacturers, to facilitate the fast updating of new products and repair techniques • Financial Planning: Prepare for potential increased costs • Specialisation: Consider becoming more specialised in certain vehicle types or repair services • Collaborative Working: Work collaboratively with other independents to share resources and expertise.
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