Co-op Shuts Down Parts of IT System Following Attempted Cyberattack
The Co-operative Group (Co-op) has proactively shut down sections of its IT infrastructure after detecting an attempted cyberattack, just days after a similar incident disrupted operations at Marks & Spencer (M&S).
In a communication to staff, Co-op confirmed that it had “taken steps to keep systems safe” by preemptively withdrawing access to certain systems. This precautionary measure has impacted some back-office and call centre services, including virtual desktops and stock management operations. Despite these disruptions, all Co-op grocery stores, funeral homes, and delivery services continue to operate normally.
A Co-op spokesperson stated: “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.”
The company emphasized that there is no evidence customer data has been compromised and that customers do not need to take any action at this time.
This incident follows a significant cyberattack on M&S, which led to the suspension of online orders and disruptions in contactless payments and click-and-collect services. The hacking group “Scattered Spider” has been linked to the M&S attack.
While Co-op has not confirmed any connection between the two incidents, the proximity of the attacks has raised concerns about the cybersecurity resilience of major UK retailers.
Co-op has assured stakeholders that it is working diligently to minimize service disruptions and will provide updates as necessary.
