CDK Cyber Attack

Kayser Chrysler Center of Watertown is a client of CDK Global, one of the leading providers of dealership management systems (DMS) in the automotive industry. On June 19, 2024, CDK Global discovered it had experienced a cyber attack.

This FAQ sheet aims to provide clarity and guidance during this challenging time. Your security and satisfaction are our top priorities.

CDK Global and Kayser Automotive Group are committed to maintaining the highest standards of data security and customer trust. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work through this situation together.

For further assistance, please reach out to yourfriends@kayseronline.com.

FAQ: CDK Cyber Attack and Its Impact on Dealerships


What is CDK?

CDK Global is one of the leading providers of dealership management systems (DMS) in the automotive industry. As of the latest available data, CDK Global holds a significant market share. Estimates suggest that CDK Global has approximately 40-45% of the DMS market in North America. This makes it one of the top providers in the industry. Kayser employs CDK DMS at 4 of our 8 locations: Kayser Ford Lincoln, Kayser Chrysler Center Sauk City, Kayser Chrysler Center of Watertown and S&L Motors.

CDK's market share is supported by its comprehensive suite of solutions that cater to various aspects of dealership operations including inventory management, sales, finance, and customer relationship management. The company's strong presence and extensive client base underscore its critical role in the automotive dealership ecosystem.

What is the CDK cyber attack?

This refers to a recent cyber incident where unauthorized individuals gained access to CDK Global’s systems. CDK Global is a major provider of technology solutions for automotive dealerships.

When did the cyber attack happen?

The attack was discovered on June 19, 2024. Out of caution and to protect customers, CDK proactively shut down a majority of their systems and disabled many integrations points from 3rd parties. CDK Global has been working diligently to assess and mitigate the impact since the discovery.

What information was compromised in the attack?

CDK Global has reported that the attackers may have accessed certain data related to dealerships, including customer information, vehicle details, and dealership operations. The extent of the data breach is still being investigated.

Has CDK Global taken steps to mitigate the impact?

Yes, CDK Global has implemented several measures to mitigate the impact of the breach:

  • Security Enhancements: Strengthened security protocols and systems.
  • Incident Response: Engaged cybersecurity experts to investigate and respond to the attack.
  • Customer Support: Established a dedicated support line for affected dealerships.
What steps should customers take to protect their information?

We’re advising customers to:

  • Monitor Accounts: Regularly check bank and credit card statements for unusual activity.
  • Change Passwords: Update passwords for online accounts associated with your vehicle.
  • Watch for Phishing: Be cautious of suspicious emails or messages claiming to be from CDK or Kayser.
What is CDK Global doing to prevent future attacks?

CDK Global is continuously enhancing its security infrastructure and protocols to prevent future cyber attacks. This includes:

  • Regular Security Audits: Conducting comprehensive security audits and assessments.
  • Employee Training: Enhancing cybersecurity training for employees.
  • Advanced Threat Detection: Implementing advanced threat detection and response systems.