Newscast
It’s Not Just A Cyber Attack, It’s An M&S Cyber Attack
May 13, 2025
Joe Tidy, BBC's cyber correspondent, joins Ciarán Martin, founding Chief Executive of the National Cyber Security Centre, and Sarah Smith, North America editor. They dive deep into the significant cyber attack on Marks & Spencer, examining customer data theft and the chaos it inflicted on operations. The conversation shifts to the notorious hacking group Dragon Force, exploring its influence on cybercrime. They also touch on geopolitical implications as Trump announces a massive arms deal in Saudi Arabia, showcasing the intersection of tech and diplomacy.
33:08
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Quick takeaways
- The recent ransomware attack on Marks & Spencer revealed critical vulnerabilities in retail cybersecurity and the devastating operational impacts on essential services.
- The sophistication of cybercriminals like Dragon Force highlights the need for improved national resilience and proactive measures against emerging cyber threats.
Deep dives
Impact of the Cyber Attack on Marks & Spencer
A significant cyber attack targeted Marks & Spencer, disrupting its operations severely. The attack, identified as ransomware, has rendered critical data unusable, complicating online transactions and causing periodic stock shortages in physical locations. Similar incidents affected the Co-op, indicating a troubling trend in retail security. The chaos experienced by Marks & Spencer underscores the growing risks of cyber vulnerabilities within essential services.
