Marks & Spencer, a popular UK retailer, has been grappling with a cyber incident that has led to the temporary pause of online orders through its website and app. The company initially halted contactless payments and suspended Click & Collect orders earlier in the week, but until recently, customers were still able to place orders through the website and app.
In a statement released by Marks & Spencer, the company explained that the decision to pause taking orders online was a proactive measure in response to the ongoing cyber incident. They assured customers that their product range is still available for browsing online and apologized for any inconvenience caused. However, they encouraged customers to visit their stores in person while online shopping is temporarily unavailable.
The retail giant’s experienced team, supported by leading cyber experts, is working diligently to resolve the issue and resume online and app shopping as soon as possible. The company expressed gratitude towards customers, colleagues, and partners for their understanding and support during this challenging time.
In addition to the suspension of online orders, customers have been facing various other issues, such as the inability to redeem gift cards, store receipts not appearing in loyalty card accounts, and a lack of access to self-serve return kiosks. These difficulties have added to the frustration of consumers who rely on Marks & Spencer for their shopping needs.
The cyber incident affecting Marks & Spencer first came to light on Saturday when returns and Click & Collect orders started experiencing problems. The company officially disclosed the incident to the London Stock Exchange on Tuesday, indicating the seriousness of the situation.
Marks & Spencer has taken steps to address the issue by informing relevant authorities such as the Information Commissioner’s Office and the National Cyber Security Center. However, the company has chosen not to provide further details or answer additional queries, redirecting inquiries back to their official statements.
William Wright, CEO at Closed Door Security, has cautioned M&S customers to remain vigilant in light of the cyber incident. He emphasized the importance of monitoring online accounts and bank statements for any suspicious activity, as well as being wary of phishing attempts. Wright highlighted the possibility of cybercriminals exploiting the incident to carry out phishing attacks aimed at obtaining personal or financial information from unsuspecting individuals.
As the situation develops, it is crucial for customers to stay informed and exercise caution when interacting online. The threat of cyber attacks is a serious concern, and individuals are advised to be proactive in safeguarding their personal data and financial details. By remaining vigilant and staying alert to potential risks, customers can help protect themselves against cyber threats during this challenging period.