PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — Car dealerships across the country are under attack from hackers, and while the disruption is affecting people trying to buy and repair their vehicles, it could also impact personal information.
Dealerships use a software called CDK Global. CDK was hacked a few days ago. And with every hack, comes the possibility that your information could be out for sale on the dark web.
It’s happening across the nation.
“Impacting 15,000 dealerships globally,” Michael Bruemmer, VP of consumer protection at Experian said Friday.
The main software they use experienced a cyberattack, which touched every part of the car buying or servicing process.
“The sale of cars, the sale of parts, getting titles and insurance and even payroll done,” Bruemmer said.
It’s causing backups, with many dealers resorting to pen and paper, so you might be waiting awhile during your next visit. Experts say to call ahead and see what your options are. Also, plan to go to the DMV yourself, since the dealership might not be able to get your registration while you’re there.
Cyberattacks are becoming more prevalent, and your personal information is continually at risk. If you’ve ever done business with a dealership–experts say assume you’re affected, and take precautions:
It’s a good idea to check your credit report. You can usually do this at least once a year for free. You should also put a fraud alert on your credit, or better yet, put a freeze on your credit file.
“If you have your credit file and you have it frozen, then anyone trying to open a new line of credit, or change that file, they won’t be able to,” Bruemmer said. “They’ll have to contact you to say, ‘hey, you have to remove that freeze.’ It’s a great way of being able to lock things down and have peace of mind.”
You’ll have to contact each credit bureau (Experian, Equifax and Transunion) to place a freeze. Some credit bureaus let you choose a time limit. Otherwise, you have to contact each one to lift the freeze.
“I would also recommend that you change any passwords that you may have associated, if you have an online account with a dealership or anything automotive,” Bruemmer said.
If your data is already compromised, you may be getting scam emails, texts or phone calls.
“Don’t answer any unsuspected phone calls,” Bruemmer said, “anything you’re not expecting, because someone could just try to scam you over the phone or even capture a voiceprint.”
You can learn more at Experian.com/databreach.