M&S and Co-op Cyber Attacks: A Wake-Up Call for Every Business

In recent weeks, UK retail giants Marks & Spencer and the Co-op have faced serious cyber attacks that disrupted operations and compromised customer data. M&S had to suspend online orders, and both retailers experienced stock issues – all while hackers accessed personal information, though thankfully not payment details. The Co-op narrowly avoided a full-scale ransomware attack.
These incidents weren’t isolated or opportunistic. With potential links to organised groups like DragonForce and Scattered Spider, they highlight how sophisticated and targeted today’s cyber threats have become. Even Harrods reported a similar attempted breach, reinforcing that no business is immune.
Beyond the immediate impact, these attacks offer critical lessons for all organisations – from the need for multi-layered security and staff awareness, to the importance of crisis communication and executive-level oversight.
Read the full post for five key takeaways every business should act on now.