UK supermarket chain Co-op confirmed it was the target of a recent cyberattack attempt, prompting operational safeguards and system shutdowns that slightly disrupted its support services. The incident follows a confirmed ransomware attack on Marks & Spencer, raising broader concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the UK retail sector.
Cyberattack Forces Limited System Shutdowns at Co-op
Co-op revealed that unknown actors attempted to breach some of its systems, triggering precautionary shutdowns. According to a company spokesperson, the disruption was limited to certain back-office and call center operations. All Co-op retail stores and funeral homes continue to function normally, and no action is currently required from customers or members.
Sector Faces Rising Cyber Risks as M&S Disruption Deepens
While Co-op has not confirmed a link to the incident at Marks & Spencer, the proximity of the two events has heightened concern. M&S recently experienced a major systems outage caused by ransomware, affecting online orders and in-store collection services. Stock shortages and the temporary suspension of operations at its primary clothing warehouse added further pressure to its logistics chain.
Experts Tie M&S Outage to Ransomware, Co-op Investigation Ongoing
According to sources familiar with the situation, the M&S cyber incident involved ransomware — malicious software that locks systems in exchange for payment. No similar details have been confirmed regarding the Co-op breach, and the company has not publicly attributed the attempt to a specific type of malware.
The Guardian was the first to report on the Co-op intrusion, and industry observers are closely watching for signs of coordinated attacks or shared vulnerabilities across UK retailers.
Retailers Grapple with Digital Threats Amid Operational Complexity
With Co-op operating nearly 2,800 stores across the UK and managing additional services in insurance, legal, and funeral operations, the threat of digital disruption presents significant risk. The recent incidents at both Co-op and M&S underscore how reliant large retailers have become on interconnected digital systems — and how vulnerable they are to disruption.
Could the UK Retail Sector Withstand a Surge in Cyberattacks?
As retail chains expand their online and logistics operations, the potential damage from cyber threats grows. Are current cybersecurity frameworks robust enough to withstand future attacks — or are these incidents just the beginning of a more sustained wave?
