A cyber attack on software provider CDK Global upended operations at car dealerships across the U.S. on Wednesday.
CDK spokesperson Lisa Finney said the company shut down most of its systems “out of an abundance of caution” for customers. By Wednesday afternoon, the company had restored its core document management system and digital retailing solutions.
“We are continuing to conduct extensive tests on all other applications, and we will provide updates as we bring those applications back online,” Finney said in an emailed statement.
Finney did not respond to questions on how many dealerships were impacted, but CDK’s website says the company works with more than 15,000 retail locations across North America.
What does CDK Global do?
One of the leading providers of cloud-based software to dealerships in the country, CDK’s software helps dealerships manage vehicle acquisitions, sales, financing, insuring, repairs and maintenance. The company’s website says it offers a “three-tiered cybersecurity strategy to prevent, protect and respond to cyberattacks.”
Why are car dealerships targeted by cyber attacks?
The incident follows a cyber attack against Findlay Automotive Group last week. The automotive group – which operates in five states – said the attack restricted its ability to conduct sales and service, according to reporting from the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
A 2023 report from CDK notes that cybercriminals are a growing threat to target car dealerships, with 17% of…
