While no financial or transaction data was accessed, the attack has prompted widespread concern about cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the retail sector and led to the arrests of four suspects by the National Crime Agency (NCA). In response to the attack, Co-op has partnered with cybersecurity recruitment company The Hacking Games to identify young talent and channel their skills into legitimate careers. Co-op has confirmed that all 6.5 million members of the UK retail cooperative had their personal data compromised during a sophisticated cyberattack in April. The cyberattack on Co-op, alongside simultaneous breaches at Marks & Spencer (M&S) and Harrods, demonstrated the coordinated nature of modern cybercrime operations. 6.5 million Co-op members' personal data stolen in April cyberattack. Four suspects arrested by the National Crime Agency on cybercrime charges. The program aims to redirect potential cybercriminals toward legal pathways, with research suggesting that career development opportunities can successfully deter young individuals from criminal activities. Co-op prevented ransomware deployment and partnered with cybersecurity recruitment programs.
This Cyber News was published on cybersecuritynews.com. Publication date: Thu, 17 Jul 2025 14:00:15 +0000