A major software provider for auto dealerships said it hopes to begin restoring a limited number of systems by June 30 after a ransomware attack disrupted operations at thousands of auto dealerships across North America.
CDK Global sent a letter to its customers on Tuesday saying it “does not believe we will be able to have all merchants live before the end of the month.”
“If you need to make alternative plans for your month-end financial close process, you should do so,” the company said.
“To ensure your dealership can continue operating until applications are restored, we ask that you set up a Dealer Resource Center that provides commonly used documents and forms to support your sales and service efforts,” CDK Global said.
Limited versions of digital tools – including platforms for retail services, payroll and vehicle repairs – are currently available, but the company warned that some partners have disabled access, resulting in error messages.
A spokesperson for CDK Global did not respond to repeated requests for comment on the update. Sources told Bloomberg last week that CDK is negotiating with the ransomware gang behind the attack, which BleepingComputer later determined to be the BlackSuit group. According to Bloomberg, CDK plans to pay the ransom, the amount of which was not disclosed.
More than 15,000 auto dealers across North America use CDK Global’s systems in nearly every aspect of their operations, including facilitating car sales, repairs, registration, and more.
Since the attack began last Tuesday, social media has been awash with dealership employees complaining that the ransomware attack is damaging sales and operations.
At least six auto dealerships have reported the attack to the SEC, noting that they are all experiencing disruptions and still do not know what data, if any, the hackers accessed.
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