Cyberattacks Disrupt Major UK Retailers' Operations

Major UK retailers including Marks & Spencer, Co-op, and Harrods have been targeted by a wave of cyberattacks, prompting the UK's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) to warn businesses to strengthen their cyber defenses. Marks & Spencer was attacked over Easter, causing ongoing disruptions to online orders and recruitment efforts, while the company works to recover. Co-op faced attempted breaches that led to precautionary IT shutdowns, though most store operations remain unaffected. Harrods reported unauthorized access attempts and responded by restricting internet access at its sites, assuring customers that stores and online shopping remain open. The attacks have heightened concerns about increasingly coordinated threats, possibly involving ransomware groups such as Scattered Spider, though no confirmed links have been established. The NCSC is providing direct assistance to the affected retailers and has called on the sector to enhance cybersecurity preparedness.