The British government is set to issue a stark warning to UK businesses, urging them to treat cybersecurity as an absolute priority, following recent high-profile cyberattacks targeting major retailers including Marks & Spencer, the Co-op Group, and Harrods.
Cabinet Office Minister Pat McFadden convened a high-level security briefing on Friday with national cybersecurity officials and Richard Horne, CEO of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), to assess the support available for the affected companies.
McFadden is expected to address the CyberUK conference in Manchester next week, where he will describe the attacks as a “wake-up call” and push for urgent industry-wide action to strengthen cyber defences. He will also spotlight the government’s new Cyber Security Bill, aimed at enhancing national protection against cybercriminals.
McFadden is expected to say: “In a world where cybercriminals are relentlessly pursuing profit with attacks occurring every hour, cybersecurity must be treated as an absolute priority by every company operating in the UK.”
Marks & Spencer Targeted by Ransomware Group
The 141-year-old British retail giant Marks & Spencer was among the most notable victims of recent cyberattacks. The retailer halted online clothing and homeware orders through its website and app on 25 April after technical issues disrupted contactless payment systems and click-and-collect services over the Easter weekend.
According to cybersecurity platform BleepingComputer, sources indicate that the attack on M&S involved ransomware and is believed to have been carried out by the notorious hacking group Scattered Spider, known for targeting high-profile organisations.
Surge in UK Cyberattacks Raises Economic Alarm
This incident is part of a growing trend of cyberattacks on UK companies, public institutions, and infrastructure, with losses totalling tens of millions of pounds and long-term operational setbacks. The government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding digital infrastructure and ensuring that British businesses are better protected against future threats.
The NCSC continues to advise organisations to strengthen their cyber resilience and remain vigilant against ransomware and other sophisticated attacks.
