Co-op Reveals 6.5 Million Members' Data Stolen in Cyber Attack

A devastating cyber attack has hit the UK's Co-op, with all 6.5 million members having their personal data stolen by hackers. The attack, which occurred in late April, saw the gang access and extract members' names, addresses, and contact information. Co-op chief executive Shirine Khoury-Haq has expressed her devastation at the impact of the attack on workers and members. The company has since partnered with social impact business The Hacking Games to prevent cybercrime by identifying young cyber talent and channelling their skills into positive, ethical careers.

Key Takeaways:

• The Co-op's cyber attack resulted in the theft of personal data for all 6.5 million members.
• The stolen data includes names, addresses, and contact information.
• The Co-op's IT systems were shut down in response to the attack, causing issues with payments and payments.
• The attack was one of several high-profile cyber incidents on retailers in recent months, including a £300 million hit to Marks & Spencer's finances.
• The Co-op has partnered with The Hacking Games to prevent cybercrime by supporting young people with skills in cybersecurity.
• The partnership aims to guide young cybersecurity professionals' skills towards positive, ethical careers.

Statistics:

• 6.5 million members of the Co-op had their data stolen in the cyber attack.
• The attack occurred in late April, leading to issues with payments and payments.
• The Co-op's IT systems were shut down in response to the attack.
• £300 million estimated financial hit to Marks & Spencer's finances due to a separate cyber attack.
• 4 young people arrested for their suspected involvement in the cyber attacks against the Co-op, M&S, and Harrods.

Sources:

• BBC News: "Co-op says all 6.5m members victims of cyber attack"
• The Guardian: "Co-op partners with anti-cybercrime group after data breach"
• The Telegraph: "Cyber attack on Co-op puts 6.5m members at risk"