CDK Global, a major provider of software for car dealerships, was recently hit by a massive cyberattack that caused widespread disruption to the automotive industry across the nation. The attack began on June 19, 2024, and forced CDK to shut down its systems to prevent further damage. And, of course, when CDK shut down, it shut down more than 15,000 car dealerships in North America, which left them unable to access the necessary applications and software to make sales, handle financing, and complete other critical operations.
Details of the Car Dealership Cyberattack
The initial breach was followed by a second attack later that same evening, compounding the challenges faced by CDK and its clients. These breaches have been linked to ransomware, a type of malicious software that encrypts data and demands a ransom for its release. As CDK attempted to restore services, the recurrence of the attack forced another shutdown, prolonging the outage.
Dealerships relying on CDK's software have been severely impacted, with many resorting to manual processes to manage their operations. Sales teams are using handwritten contracts, and service departments are scheduling appointments and ordering parts using pen and paper. The disruption has not only hindered day-to-day operations but also led to financial losses and customer dissatisfaction.
Auto Industry's Response to Attack
Automakers like Kia, Toyota, and Stellantis have stepped in to support affected dealerships, working to mitigate the impact on customers. However, with no clear timeline for the restoration of CDK's systems, dealerships continue to face significant operational challenges. The incident underscores the vulnerability of the automotive industry's digital infrastructure and the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures.
Impact on Consumers Looking to Buy a Car
The cyberattack has also directly affected consumers looking to purchase or service vehicles. Many customers have experienced delays and have been unable to complete transactions due to the system outages. The inability to access inventory, process financing, and register vehicles has led to frustration and potential loss of business for the affected dealerships.
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