Digital devices like rugged tablets and connected in-dash head units are the backbone of an advanced transportation and logistics strategy, but they also create distractions for drivers. This can be especially problematic if they’re not sufficiently locked down, allowing drivers to easily circumvent safety restrictions.
Adding connected devices to the cab of fleet vehicles is a double-edged sword for many companies. On one hand, it allows for improved tracking of company assets and improved route management. On the other hand, it presents entirely new challenges for IT managers — like how to prevent drivers from trying to download potentially distracting applications.
There are native functions built into Android and iOS that help with this, but these can’t be trusted when safety is paramount. Both Screen Pinning (Android) and Guided Access (iOS) are simply too easy to bypass by determined users — in some cases, a simple device reboot is enough.
The best way to make sure your devices are fully locked down is with kiosk mode, which usually requires the help of a third-party software company. At Esper, we know a thing or two about securely locking down devices across a variety of industries — trucking, transportation and logistics notwithstanding.
We used this knowledge to help Summit Trucking fully lock down their in-cab devices to prevent drivers from accessing anything outside of the required apps allowed by Summit’s IT department. They needed a way to transform off-the-shelf consumer tablets into purpose-built devices that were tamper resistant, and we delivered.
You need a reliable and virtually unbreakable kiosk mode
To solve Summit’s issue, we turned to our hardened kiosk mode. With Esper’s kiosk mode, Summit is able to fully lock down their devices and restrict access to non-approved apps. Access to the Google Play Store, third-party app stores and all other restricted applications are all blocked with a virtually impenetrable system. Not only that, but sideloading is also blocked, so savvy drivers aren’t able to bypass these restrictions with a simple APK download.
With our kiosk mode, Summit Trucking is in full control of their devices. They’re able to quickly and easily grant access to approved apps like fuel management, loyalty programs and more through Esper’s online console — and they can update this list on the fly any time they need to. As long as the device is online, changes are nearly instantaneous, as well.
The right software partner is crucial when safety comes first
Kiosk mode isn’t an uncommon feature for device management software. But not all kiosk mode options are created equal, and some are downright easy to bypass. In a world where tablets and other rugged devices are front-and-center in a 80,000 pound vehicle, keeping distractions to a minimum isn’t just necessary to protect company assets, but for public safety as well.
If your devices aren’t strictly locked down with a system that is impenetrable by even the savviest of users, then you’re leaving safety up to chance. If that’s not a chance you’re willing to take, it’s time for a better solution. Get in touch with Esper to find out how you can not only secure your enterprise devices, but manage them with more agility than ever before.