Q-Free to announce 'leap-forward' cybersecurity solution

Q-Free will unveil a new traffic control cybersecurity platform ahead of the ITS World Congress in Atlanta, ITS International has learned.

While full details remain under wraps until next week, company spokesperson Trisha Tunilla confirmed the launch, saying Dynamic Signals will set a “new benchmark for cybersecurity, interoperability and ease of management”

“This software will address vulnerabilities that have plagued the industry for years,” Tunilla added. “It will bridge the gap between the signal functionality engineers love and the cybersecurity agencies require.”

Early indications suggest Dynamic Signals will feature end-to-end encryption, secure API-based communications, and advanced authentication methods that restore control to those who manage the signals. In recent presentations, Q-Free has cautioned about the risks of outdated protocols including SNMP v1, which the company says leave systems open to cyber threats. 

A recent Mineta Transportation Institute report co-authored by Scott Belcher underscored these risks, particularly for small- and medium-sized transit agencies. He noted that evidence suggests the same vulnerabilities exist across the entire transportation ecosystem. 

Belcher warned: “In order to combat hackers, we have to recognise and acknowledge weaknesses in our transportation networks and address them aggressively.”

In acknowledging Q-Free’s launch plans, Tunilla said the company will showcase Dynamic Signals at ITS World Congress 2025, pulling back the veil and giving attendees the opportunity to measure their own cyber vulnerabilities against the protections offered by the new platform. 

“Without getting ahead of our announcement, we believe Dynamic Signals has the potential to elevate our cybersecurity footing and push our industry in a positive direction," she concluded.