Car dealership Auto Solutions has been indirectly hit by a significant cyber incident overseas.

In a letter to customers, Auto Solutions revealed: “CDK Global, a major provider of software services for automotive dealerships, has experienced a significant cyber incident resulting in system outages.”

The outage disrupted CDK Global’s operations and affected numerous dealerships globally, including Auto Solutions’ customer service system.

“CDK Global has confirmed that they are actively working to resolve this issue and restore normal service as quickly as possible,” Auto Solutions said.

However, Auto Solutions remained operational.

“We understand the inconvenience this may have caused, and our dedicated team is doing everything possible to continue providing you with the high-quality service you expect from us,” Auto Solutions said. “While some processes may be slower than usual, we are committed to minimising any inconvenience this situation may cause.”

The hack on CDK Global began on Tuesday evening, disrupting the 15,000 car dealerships it serves offline. CDK has been working outside expertise to restore its systems.

Some of its systems, including its core dealership management system and its digital retailing solutions, were back online.

In February 2019, CDK Global published an article on their website stating: “Dealers need to assume they are being targeted by advanced attackers and must take a proactive approach to security.”

Illinois-based CDK stated that it made cybersecurity a top priority by providing a complete security solution for dealerships.

“Our solution includes log management, network monitoring and analysis, and threat remediation,” CDK wrote. “CDK provides the monitoring and diligence dealerships need for compliance, real security and peace of mind.”