• Harrods experiences a cyber attack aimed at its systems, following incidents at Marks & Spencer and Co-op.
• The luxury retailer has restricted internet access at its sites while keeping all locations open for customers.
• Customer payment data has not been reported as compromised during the attempted breach.
• National security agencies are investigating the recent spate of attacks affecting UK retailers.

Harrods, the iconic luxury department store, confirmed on Thursday that it experienced a cyber attack, making it the third high-profile UK retailer targeted within two weeks. Following similar incidents at Marks & Spencer and the Co-op Group, this latest breach underscores the ongoing vulnerability of businesses to online threats, with British companies facing “a wave of cyber attacks” that cost them tens of millions of pounds over time, according to BBC, Channel News Asia, Reuters, and NPR.

In response to the attack, Harrods has restricted internet access at its sites, although all physical locations, including its flagship Knightsbridge store, remain open. The company stated, “Our seasoned IT security team immediately took proactive steps to keep systems safe,” assuring customers that they can still shop online and that their payment information has not been compromised. This reflects a level of public concern regarding the security of high-end retail businesses, as noted by BBC and NPR.

Marks & Spencer, another affected retailer, has faced severe operational disruptions, with pauses on clothing and home orders through its online platforms for more than a week. Both it and the Co-op have been collaborating with the National Cyber Security Centre and the Metropolitan Police's Cyber Crime Unit as investigations continue into the incidents, which might or might not be interrelated. This highlights the broader issue of cyber security within the retail sector, as emphasized by Reuters and Channel News Asia.