CDK Global: Most core dealership management system functionality has been restored following cyberattack

CDK Global, a leading provider of automotive retail technology, has announced that it has successfully restored most of the core functionality of its dealership management system (DMS) following a recent cyberattack. The attack, which occurred on April 30, 2022, had disrupted the company’s systems and impacted its customers’ ability to access critical business applications.

In a statement released on May 10, 2022, CDK Global confirmed that its teams had worked tirelessly to restore the affected systems and that most of the core DMS functionality had been reinstated. The company emphasized that the security and integrity of its customers’ data remained a top priority and that it was continuing to work closely with law enforcement and cybersecurity experts to investigate the incident.

The cyberattack had caused significant disruptions to CDK Global’s customers, including automotive dealerships and OEMs, who rely on the company’s DMS to manage their daily operations, including sales, inventory, and customer relationships. The outage had resulted in delays and inefficiencies, with some dealerships reporting difficulties in processing transactions, managing inventory, and accessing critical business data.

CDK Global’s swift response to the incident has been praised by its customers and industry experts. The company’s teams worked around the clock to contain the attack, assess the damage, and develop a plan to restore its systems. CDK Global also established a dedicated incident response team to provide regular updates to its customers and partners, ensuring transparency and communication throughout the process.

The restoration of most core DMS functionality is a significant milestone in CDK Global’s recovery efforts. Dealerships can now access critical business applications, including sales and F&I tools, inventory management systems, and customer relationship management software. While some secondary systems and features may still be unavailable, CDK Global has assured its customers that it is working diligently to restore all functionality as soon as possible.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of cybersecurity in the automotive industry. As dealerships and OEMs increasingly rely on digital technologies to manage their operations, they also become more vulnerable to cyber threats. CDK Global’s experience highlights the need for robust security measures, regular system updates, and employee education to prevent and respond to cyberattacks.

In the aftermath of the incident, CDK Global has reiterated its commitment to protecting its customers’ data and ensuring the integrity of its systems. The company has pledged to continue investing in its cybersecurity infrastructure and to work closely with its customers and partners to prevent similar incidents in the future.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve and become increasingly dependent on digital technologies, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. CDK Global’s swift response to the cyberattack and its commitment to restoring its systems and protecting its customers’ data serve as a model for the industry.