In the modern transportation industry, fleet cards have become indispensable tools for managing fuel purchases and vehicle-related expenses. These cards offer convenience and control but also present potential security challenges. Implementing robust security measures is crucial to prevent fraud and unauthorized use. ExxonMobil offers fleet card solutions like BusinessPro and FleetPro, equipped with features designed to enhance security and streamline expense management.
Understanding Fleet Card Security Risks
Fleet cards, while facilitating efficient fuel management, can be susceptible to various security threats:
Card Theft or Loss: Physical cards can be stolen or misplaced, leading to unauthorized transactions.
Skimming Devices: Fraudsters may install skimming devices at fuel pumps to capture card information during legitimate transactions.
Unauthorized Use: Employees might misuse cards for personal expenses, intentionally or unintentionally.
Data Breaches: Compromised card information can lead to fraudulent activities and financial losses.
Best Practices for Fleet Managers
To mitigate these risks, fleet managers should adopt comprehensive security strategies:
1. Implement Strict Card Controls
Utilize fleet card management systems to set specific controls:
• Spending Limits: Define daily, weekly, or monthly spending caps to prevent excessive expenditures.
• Authorized Fuel Types: Restrict purchases to specific fuel types relevant to your fleet's needs.
• Time and Location Restrictions: Limit card usage to certain hours and approved fueling locations.
ExxonMobil's BusinessPro card offers customizable spending limits and purchase controls, allowing managers to tailor usage parameters to their fleet's requirements.
2. Monitor Transactions Regularly
Regularly review transaction reports to identify unusual patterns or unauthorized activities:
• Real-Time Alerts: Set up notifications for transactions that exceed predefined thresholds or occur outside authorized parameters.
• Detailed Reporting: Utilize detailed reports to track who spends what, where, and when, facilitating prompt detection of discrepancies.
The BusinessPro card provides comprehensive online and mobile tools for tracking fuel expenses, enhancing oversight capabilities.
3. Leverage Advanced Telematics
Integrate GPS tracking systems with fleet cards to gain insights into vehicle locations and driver behaviors:
• Real-Time Vehicle Tracking: Monitor vehicle positions to ensure they align with fueling activities.
• Driver Performance Metrics: Assess driving habits that may impact fuel efficiency and vehicle wear.
ExxonMobil's Premium GPS Vehicle Tracking links BusinessPro cards to GPS tracking software, offering real-time mapping and detailed reporting.
4. Educate and Train Employees
Conduct regular training sessions to inform drivers about security protocols:
• Recognizing Skimming Devices: Teach drivers to identify and avoid tampered fuel pumps.
• Secure Card Handling: Emphasize the importance of safeguarding card information and reporting lost or stolen cards immediately.
• Policy Adherence: Ensure drivers understand and comply with company policies regarding card usage.
Best Practices for Drivers
Drivers play a pivotal role in maintaining fleet card security. Adhering to the following practices can significantly reduce risks:
1. Use Secure Payment Methods
Whenever possible, opt for secure payment technologies:
• Mobile Payment Apps: Utilize apps like ExxonMobil's DriverDash, which offers contactless, seamless, and secure transactions. DriverDash links transactions directly to the fleet card account, reducing the risk of card skimming.
2. Verify Pump Integrity
• Before fueling: Inspect Card Readers: Look for signs of tampering, such as loose or misaligned card readers.
• Check Security Seals: Ensure security seals on fuel dispensers are intact.
If any anomalies are detected, report them to the station attendant and use a different pump or station.
3. Protect Personal Identification Numbers (PINs)
• Safeguard PINs by: Concealing Entry: Shield the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent observation.
• Avoiding Shared Numbers: Do not share your PIN with others or write it down.
4. Report Issues Promptly
In case of a lost or stolen card, or suspected fraudulent activity:
• Immediate Notification: Inform your fleet manager or the card issuer immediately to suspend the card and prevent unauthorized use.
Leveraging ExxonMobil's Security Features
ExxonMobil's fleet card programs incorporate several security features designed to protect against fraud:
• Driver PIN Authorization: Requires drivers to enter a unique PIN for each transaction, adding a layer of security.
• Mobile Payment Integration: The DriverDash app enables secure, contactless payments, reducing exposure to skimming devices.
• Comprehensive Reporting Tools: Online platforms provide detailed transaction data, facilitating effective monitoring and control.
• GPS Tracking Integration: Combining fuel card data with GPS tracking enhances oversight of vehicle locations and driver behaviors.