CDK Global shuts down DMS software following latest cyber attack

US cloud-based dealership software house CDK Global has been reportedly hit by an ongoing cyberattack, forcing it to pull its Dealer Management System offline for a second time in as many days.

CDK’s software supports nearly 15,000 dealerships in North America by managing vehicle acquisitions, sales, financing, insurance, repairs, and maintenance.

In response to the June 19 attack, CDK stated that the company shut down most of its systems "out of an abundance of caution" to protect customers.

Despite restoring its core document management system and digital retailing solutions by Wednesday afternoon, further extensive testing is being conducted on all other applications.

The attack has disrupted operations at dealerships across the US forcing many to revert to manual processes.

CDK Global states it has a three-tiered cyber security strategy to prevent, protect, and respond to cyberattacks on its website.

In a message to dealerships, CDK indicated that the latest outage might persist for several days and said it remains committed to restoring full service and assisting dealers in returning to normal operations as swiftly as possible.

Car dealerships are attractive targets for cyber attacks due to the sensitive customer data they handle, including credit applications and financial information.