Cyber Incident Strikes CDK Global Twice in a Week: Auto Dealerships Nationwide Impacted

HOUSTON, TEXAS – CDK Global, a provider of software solutions for auto dealerships, experienced a second cyber incident within days, resulting in widespread outages. The company took proactive measures to shut down most of its systems following an additional cyber incident on Wednesday night, as reported by Automotive News.

Dealers were informed by CDK that their systems would be offline for at least a day due to the incident. The company is collaborating with third-party experts to assess the impact of the cyber attack. This marks the second cyber incident disclosed by CDK Global in the same week, with the initial incident prompting a temporary shutdown of systems.

Despite the challenges posed by cyber incidents, CDK Global managed to restore its core dealer management system and digital retailing solutions following the first attack. The company’s customer base includes over 15,000 retail dealer locations throughout North America.

Cyber incidents present a significant risk to businesses, as highlighted by a report from Allianz Commercial that identified such incidents as the top business risk for 2024 based on a comprehensive survey of various stakeholders. Business interruptions, natural catastrophes, and regulatory changes were also cited as significant threats.

The ramifications of cyber attacks on businesses extend beyond temporary system outages, emphasizing the importance of robust cybersecurity measures. Organizations are increasingly prioritizing cybersecurity to mitigate the risks associated with cyber incidents and safeguard sensitive data.

With the prevalence of cyber threats in today’s digital landscape, businesses must remain vigilant in implementing proactive security measures to protect their operations and uphold the trust of their customers. CDK Global’s experience serves as a reminder of the critical importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding against potential cyber threats.