Harrods Hit by Cyber Attack, Internet Access Slashed
Harrods, the iconic luxury department store, was targeted by a cyber attack earlier today. The breach forced the retailer to heavily restrict internet access across its operations to protect its systems.
Payment Problems and System Disruptions Reported
UK News in Pictures has learned that hackers tried to break into Harrods’ IT systems, causing payment glitches for some customers at the legendary Knightsbridge store. The incident echoes recent cyberattacks on other UK retailers like Marks & Spencer and the Co-op Group, signalling a troubling trend.
“We recently experienced attempts to gain unauthorised access to some of our systems. Our seasoned IT security team immediately took proactive steps to keep systems safe, and as a result, we have restricted internet access at our sites today,” a Harrods spokesperson confirmed.
Stores Remain Open Despite Online Issues
Harrods reassured fans that all physical locations—including Knightsbridge, H Beauty branches, and airport stores—are open as usual. Online shopping at Harrods.com is also running normally despite the disruption.
The full extent of the cyber breach is still unclear. However, customers reported trouble completing purchases due to system disruptions earlier in the day.
Harrods Scrambles to Bolster Cybersecurity
Owned by Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund, Harrods is working with cybersecurity experts to get to the bottom of the attack and shore up defences.
This comes amid escalating cyber threats targeting major UK retailers. Just this week, Marks & Spencer faced lengthy online ordering problems after a separate cyber incident.
The retail sector is under intense pressure to beef up digital security as hackers grow more sophisticated, threatening sensitive customer data and critical systems.
