In our previous article on UK retail supply chain cybersecurity threats, we highlighted how retail cyberattacks were already having a serious impact across the sector. Since then, more has come to light about the tactics used, the vulnerabilities exploited, and the wider consequences of these retail cyberattacks.
Now, as businesses continue to assess the fallout, it’s crucial to understand what went wrong – and, more importantly, how to protect your organisation from becoming the next target.
While these attacks varied in their execution, they shared a common theme: coordinated, persistent threats exploiting both human error and outdated systems. For some companies, rapid response limited the fallout. For others, the damage was far more disruptive.
This article breaks down key breaches, highlights recurring weaknesses, and provides clear, actionable strategies for building resilience.
A Closer Look at the Incidents
Marks & Spencer (M&S): A Case of Social Engineering
On 21 April, M&S was hit by a cyberattack that disrupted multiple business-critical systems. Online ordering halted. Contactless payments failed. Additionally, over 200 job adverts had to be pulled offline due to internal IT issues.
The attack is thought to have originated from the DragonForce group. Their strategy reportedly involved phishing emails, impersonation, and SIM swapping. As a result, employees unknowingly handed over login credentials.
Once inside, attackers accessed the domain controller. This effectively gave them the ability to impersonate any user in the organisation.
Key takeaway: When attackers successfully deceive staff, they can bypass even well-funded security systems. For this reason, cybersecurity awareness is non-negotiable.
The Co-op: A Strong Incident Response in Practice
Meanwhile, the Co-op also detected malicious activity within its infrastructure. In response, the company acted quickly, shutting down affected systems to limit the spread.
Although around 200 stores faced temporary disruption, payment systems were restored swiftly. While some customer data was accessed, no financial information was compromised.
Key takeaway: A rapid, well-rehearsed response plan can turn a major threat into a manageable event. Therefore, regular testing of your incident response is essential.
Harrods: Quiet Confidence and Strong Defences
Around the same time, Harrods confirmed a cyber incident. However, the company experienced minimal operational disruption. In fact, its swift handling suggests a mature cybersecurity framework was already in place.
Technical details remain limited, yet it appears Harrods’ early detection and containment efforts paid off.
Key takeaway: Preparation behind the scenes can prevent public-facing chaos. In other words, resilience starts well before an attack takes place.
Common Tactics: Why These Attacks Worked
Although each attack had its own context, several overlapping weaknesses were exploited:
- Phishing and impersonation: These methods rely on staff making honest mistakes. Without training, they’re difficult to prevent.
- Unpatched systems: Attackers often scan for outdated software. If it’s not patched, it becomes an easy target.
- Poor network segmentation: Once inside, attackers could move freely between departments. This allowed them to cause greater disruption.
- Limited monitoring tools: Without real-time visibility, unusual activity can go unnoticed for days.
- Weak access controls: Shared passwords and lack of multi-factor authentication (MFA) made it easier to gain access.
These vulnerabilities are not unique to large organisations. In fact, they’re common across many retail businesses, especially those with legacy systems or limited in-house IT support.
How to Protect Your Business: Actionable Steps That Matter
In today’s environment, hoping for the best is not a strategy. Instead, businesses need layered, proactive defences. Here’s what you can do now to reduce your risk – backed by proven tools and services we provide at Assure Technical.
1. Simulate Real Attacks with Penetration Testing
Criminals look for weak spots. So should you.
By simulating real-world cyberattacks, penetration testing reveals where your systems are most vulnerable. This helps you fix problems before they’re exploited.
At Assure Technical, our award-winning CREST-approved penetration testing services are tailored to your unique threat environment. For retailers, we focus on what matters most: customer data, payment systems, and operational continuity.
2. Close the Gaps with Timely Patch Management
Outdated systems are one of the most common access points for attackers. Therefore, regular patching is essential.
Use automated tools where possible. Better still, pair this with our managed vulnerability scanning to spot issues before they’re exploited.
3. Enforce Strong Access Controls and MFA
The fewer people who can access a system, the harder it is to compromise.
That’s why role-based access and multi-factor authentication are vital. In addition, audit account permissions regularly, especially when staff change roles or leave.
We can help review and redesign your access policies as part of a broader cybersecurity consultancy engagement.
4. Segment Your Network to Limit Impact
When attackers breach one area, network segmentation stops them from moving laterally.
For example, your HR systems should never sit on the same network as your point of sale systems. If they do, one breach could expose everything.
We can advise on practical, low-disruption ways to separate your systems – and reduce exposure in the process.
5. Train Staff to Spot Social Engineering
Many breaches begin with a convincing email or phone call. However, regular training helps employees recognise and report suspicious activity.
Our security awareness training includes real-world simulations, not just theory – ensuring staff are ready when it counts.
6. Strengthen Cyber Defence with 24/7 Threat Monitoring
A cyber attack can occur at any time of the day or night. Continuous monitoring enables you to identify and contain threats before they escalate.
Our affordable Managed Security Operations Centre (SOC) Service offers 24/7 enterprise-grade, real-time threat monitoring, threat detection, and rapid response – all in one service.
7. Maintain Secure, Encrypted Backups – Offline
Finally, if all else fails, a strong backup can save your business.
However, backups must be encrypted, tested regularly, and stored offline to avoid being encrypted by ransomware. We help organisations implement backup strategies that support fast recovery and compliance.
Final Thoughts: From Awareness to Action
The recent wave of cyberattacks is a wake-up call to the entire retail sector. These weren’t theoretical risks- they were targeted, well-executed assaults with real-world consequences.
The message is clear: cybersecurity is no longer optional. It’s an operational necessity.
If you’re unsure where your vulnerabilities lie, or whether your systems could withstand a similar attack, don’t wait until it’s too late.
Speak to one of our cybersecurity experts today.
References:
https://www.independent.co.uk/bulletin/news/marks-spencer-coop-hack-cyberattack-b2745564.html
https://www.coop.co.uk/cyber-incident
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/34802673/tyler-buchanan-scattered-spider-cyber-attack-gang/
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-northamptonshire-66927965
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/m-s-coop-hack-scattered-spider-it-worker-b2745218.html
