Co-op Pulls Plug on IT Systems After Cyberattack Attempt
The Co-operative Group has slammed the brakes on parts of its IT network after a cyberattack attempt, just days after Marks & Spencer suffered a similar digital blow.
Back-Office Chaos but Stores Stay Open
In a staff alert, Co-op revealed it “taken steps to keep systems safe” by cutting access to certain systems. The move hit back-office operations and call centres, affecting virtual desktops and stock management. But shoppers and customers at grocery stores, funeral homes, and delivery services are still in the clear, with normal service continuing.
A Co-op spokesperson said: “We have recently experienced attempts to gain unauthorised access to some of our systems. As a result, we have taken proactive steps to keep our systems safe, which has resulted in a small impact to some of our back office and call centre services.”
No Breach of Customer Data
The company stressed that no customer data appears to have been compromised. Customers don’t need to do anything for now.
After M&S Hack, UK Retailers on High Alert
This follows a major cyberattack on Marks & Spencer that forced it to stop online orders and caused chaos with contactless payments and click-and-collect. The hacking gang “Scattered Spider” was linked to the M&S breach.
Co-op hasn’t confirmed any link between the two attacks, but the timing has sparked fears over UK retailers’ cybersecurity strength.
Co-op insists it is working hard to keep disruptions to a minimum and will update customers and staff as the situation develops.
