Harrods is Latest British Retailer to be Hit by Cyber Attack

LONDON: In a disturbing trend, London's iconic department store Harrods has fallen victim to a cyber attack, marking the third high-profile incident in two weeks among UK retailers. The Qatar Investment Authority-owned luxury retailer confirmed that hackers attempted to break into its systems, leaving the nation's capital on high alert.

Harrods' statement revealed that their seasoned IT security team swiftly responded to the breach, restricting internet access at all sites, including its flagship Knightsbridge store in London, H beauty stores, and airport stores. Despite the attack, customers can still shop online and visit the stores without any disruptions.

The latest cyber attack on Harrods comes as a wave of attacks continues to sweep across British companies, public bodies, and institutions. The past few years have seen numerous high-profile breaches, with losses estimated in the tens of millions of pounds. Cyber attacks often result in months of disruption, causing significant financial strain on affected businesses.

The recent incidents at Harrods, Marks & Spencer (M&S), and the Co-op Group highlight the ongoing threat posed by cybercriminals. M&S was hit with a ransomware attack that encrypted its servers, believed to have been carried out by the hacking collective "Scattered Spider". The attack has resulted in the closure of its website and app for clothing and home orders.

The impact of the attacks is particularly concerning during periods of high demand, such as warm weather. M&S typically experiences an increase in sales for summer clothing, fresh food, and drinks. However, the availability of some food products was affected in certain stores due to the attack.

Law enforcement agencies are working closely with both M&S and the Co-op Group to investigate the attacks. The Metropolitan Police's Cyber Crime Unit and the National Crime Agency (NCA) are leading the investigation into the M&S breach, while the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is collaborating with M&S and the Co-op.

As the UK continues to grapple with the rising threat of cyber attacks, it remains crucial for businesses and individuals alike to take proactive measures to protect themselves. With technology specialist site BleepingComputer citing multiple sources, it's clear that cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their tactics.

Stay informed about the latest developments in this ongoing story as we continue to bring you updates on the impact of these cyber attacks and how businesses and individuals can protect themselves from future breaches. Subscribe to our Chief Editor’s Week in Review for analysis and picks of the week's biggest news every Saturday, and get our pick of top stories and thought-provoking articles in your inbox.