Co-op Cyber Attack: 6.5 Million Members' Data Stolen in Devastating Hack

The UK retailer, Co-op, has revealed that all 6.5 million of its members had their data stolen in a devastating cyber attack earlier this year. The incident has left the company's CEO, Shirine Khoury-Haq, "devastated" by the impact on workers and members.

The Co-op took drastic measures to contain the breach, shutting down parts of its IT systems as soon as it became aware of the attack in late April. However, the fallout from the incident has been severe, with shoppers facing empty shelves and issues with payments shortly after.

One of the most significant consequences of the cyber attack was the theft of personal data from all 6.5 million members. According to the Co-op's CEO, names, addresses, and contact information were accessed by hackers. Khoury-Haq expressed concern for her members, stating: "We know that a lot of that information is out there anyway but people will be worried and all members should be concerned."

Despite the severity of the breach, the Co-op was able to prevent the hackers from installing ransomware or accessing its platforms further. However, the company did suffer significant disruptions, including the shutdown of its IT systems.

The Co-op's decision to shut down its systems was a drastic measure, but one that ultimately prevented the hackers from causing more extensive damage. The company's stores and funeral homes remained open during this time, but the impact on colleagues, members, and customers was still significant.

However, the Co-op has since announced a partnership with a social impact business aimed at preventing cybercrime by identifying young cyber talent and channelling their skills into positive, ethical careers. The Hacking Games is a non-profit organization that aims to support young people in developing their cybersecurity skills.

"The disruption it causes, the pressure it puts on colleagues, and the impact it has on the people and communities we serve... Our partnership with The Hacking Games lets us reach talented young people early, guide their skills toward protection rather than harm, and open real paths into ethical work." — Shirine Khoury-Haq, CEO of Co-op

The partnership between the Co-op and The Hacking Games is a positive step towards preventing cybercrime before it starts. By supporting young people in developing their cybersecurity skills, the company aims to reduce risk and have a positive impact on society.

Young People's Skills: A Key to Preventing Cybercrime

The Co-op's partnership with The Hacking Games highlights the importance of young people's skills in preventing cybercrime. According to Fergus Hay, co-founder of The Hacking Games, "There is an incredible amount of cyber talent out there – but many young people don’t see a path into the industry, or simply don’t realise their skills can be used for good."

The partnership aims to unlock this potential by providing young people with opportunities to develop their cybersecurity skills in a positive and ethical way. By doing so, the Co-op hopes to create a generation of ethical hackers who will help make the world safer.