Puerto Rico, Nov 20, 2024 — Protecting Data in EV Charging: How ProRanked Sets the Standard
In light of a recent data breach involving another EV charging software provider, ProRanked assures its customers and partners that their data remains secure. The breach, affecting 12,000 transactions in Puerto Rico between March and June, exposed sensitive information such as vehicle identification numbers (VINs), MAC addresses, RFID tags, customer names.
At ProRanked, data privacy and security are at the core of everything we do. We’re proud to confirm that this breach does not affect our systems or customers. Unlike many networks, ProRanked develops and operates its software entirely in-house, ensuring that sensitive information is never handled by third-party providers outside the United States or Puerto Rico.
Understanding the Importance of Data Security in EV Charging
When using EV charging networks, customers entrust providers with sensitive data that enables seamless transactions and personalized experiences. However, breaches like this one serve as a reminder of the vulnerabilities that can arise from poorly secured systems. ProRanked takes proactive steps to mitigate such risks.
How ProRanked Safeguards Your Data:
1. In-House Software Development: By building and managing our systems internally, we maintain full control over security protocols, ensuring your data is safe from unauthorized access.
2. Data Residency Standards: All data is processed and stored exclusively in secure locations within the U.S. and Puerto Rico, adhering to strict compliance measures.
What Happened? A Closer Look at the Recent Breach
The breach was first identified by a user on X.com, “InterBrokerBF,” who described how he accessed systems using hardcoded credentials. These credentials allowed him to reach multiple Azure storage buckets containing Excel files with customer data. According to a report by the International Cyber Digest, this data was openly accessible and lacked sufficient protections. LINK
Why This Matters to EV Users:
Three key data points—ID tags, MAC addresses, and VIN numbers—were exposed. These fields are classified as Personally Identifiable Information (PII) because they can be used to trace back to specific users. With such information, bad actors could potentially impersonate vehicles or users in charging networks.
Plug&Charge: The Safer, Smarter Solution
The breach also highlights the dangers of Auto Charge, a feature that depends on exposed data like MAC addresses and RFID tags to initiate charging sessions. This approach leaves customers vulnerable to attacks where hackers impersonate their vehicles to access charging services.
At ProRanked, we advocate for a more secure alternative: Plug&Charge, based on the ISO 15118 standard.
How Plug&Charge Works:
• Encrypted communication and digital certificates authenticate vehicles and charging stations.
• Sensitive data is never exposed, significantly reducing the risk of fraud or impersonation.
• Users enjoy a seamless charging experience, knowing their data is protected by the highest standards of security.
For a deeper dive into the risks of Auto Charge, we recommend this insightful article by switch-ev.com.
ProRanked is actively deploying Plug&Charge across our network, prioritizing both user convenience and data security.
Looking Ahead: A Secure Future for EV Charging
As the adoption of electric vehicles continues to grow, so does the need for robust security in charging networks. By choosing ProRanked, customers and site hosts gain access to a network designed for safety, innovation, and reliability.
We encourage all EV users to educate themselves about the technologies and practices that protect their data. With ProRanked, you can charge with confidence, knowing that our commitment to your security is as strong as our dedication to advancing EV infrastructure.
For more information on ProRanked’s security practices, Plug&Charge implementation, or innovative EV solutions, reach out to us at contact@proranked.com.
