In a recent cyber incident, data provider CDK Global, whose software is utilized at 15,000 auto dealers, faced disruptions in operations at US and Canada dealerships on Wednesday, the company confirmed.
“We are actively investigating a cyber incident,” CDK spokesperson Lisa Finney stated in a release to CNN. “Out of an abundance of caution and concern for our customers, we have shut down most of our systems and are working diligently to get everything up and running as quickly as possible.”
CDK provides various products that car dealers use for tasks like record-keeping of negotiated deals and scheduling services. While not all dealers use CDK’s products, those who do are facing challenges due to the incident.
Jeff Ramsey, an executive at Ourisman Auto Group based in Maryland, mentioned, “We have customers coming in today who had deals saved in the system.”
To safeguard customer privacy, customer details are not stored on paper but on a server that is currently inaccessible to salespeople.
Although Ramsey acknowledges CDK’s efforts to secure data, he expressed concerns about the impact on business. Delays in closing sales at his dealerships could lead customers to rival dealers unaffected by the incident.
Considering it is car buying season, Ramsey emphasized the necessity for operational systems during the summer months.
Ramsey and Brian Benstock, the general manager at Paragon Honda and Paragon Acura in Long Island City, New York, confirmed that they were still conducting business and selling cars despite the challenges.
“My selling team can hand-write a buyer’s order,” Benstock commented.
While sales were ongoing, Benstock highlighted potential challenges for accountants and business personnel due to the network and computer reliance.
A follow-up statement from CDK mentioned that some systems had been restored, but full functionality had not yet been achieved.
