In late April 2025, UK retail giant Marks & Spencer (M&S) became the latest high-profile victim of a sophisticated cyberattack, reportedly carried out by the hacking group Scattered Spider. The incident caused widespread service disruption across stores, online platforms, and logistics, costing the business millions in lost revenue and shaken consumer trust.

As a Managed Services Provider (MSP), we at Network Ltd view incidents like this not just as news, but as cautionary tales and opportunities to reflect on what every organisation, no matter its size, can do to strengthen its cyber defences.

The Attack in Brief

The M&S breach unfolded over Easter weekend and forced the company to disable online orders, pause click-and-collect services, and even halt contactless payments in stores. Supply chains were also hit, causing product shortages.

Attackers may have had access to internal systems weeks before detection, using advanced social engineering and ransomware techniques to cause widespread disruption.

3 Key Lessons for UK Businesses

1. No One is Too Big (or Small) to Be Targeted

M&S is a household name with significant investment in technology and security. If they can be breached, so can a small or medium-sized business. Threat actors are targeting organisations of all sizes.

SMEs must not assume they’re "under the radar." Cybercriminals use automation to scan and exploit vulnerabilities at scale.

2. Ransomware Is Evolving

Groups like Scattered Spider don’t just encrypt files they steal data, map networks, and destroy backups before striking.

✅ At Network Ltd, we recommend:

• Layered security strategies
• Endpoint detection and response (EDR)
• Regular backup tests with immutable storage
• Cybersecurity awareness training for staff

3. Business Continuity Hinges on IT Resilience

This attack caused:

• A 7% drop in M&S share value
• Halted online and in-store operations
• Product shortages across the UK

This wasn't just an IT issue it was a business continuity crisis.

Now is the time to review your:

• Disaster recovery plan
• Cyber insurance coverage
• Incident response strategy

What Can You Do Today?

Here are a few quick wins:

• 🔍 Run a vulnerability scan on your network
• 📧 Schedule a phishing simulation for your team
• 💾 Review your backup policy
• 📞 Ask us for a cyber health check

We offer all of the above reach out anytime.