They pulled their own plug: How Co-op prevented an even more severe cyber attack

Co-op, a UK supermarket chain, managed to avert a potentially worse cyber attack that could have seen them locked out of their own computer systems.
.The hackers who claimed responsibility for the attack stated that they attempted to infect Co-op with ransomware but failed as the company's IT team quickly discovered and responded to the breach by taking the systems offline.

This preventive measure likely reduced the overall impact of the attack compared to that experienced by Marks & Spencer (M&S), which has seen prolonged disruptions to its operations, including suspended online orders and empty store shelves. The same group claimed responsibility for the M&S attack, which has been more severe and costly for the company.

The hackers, who operate through the cybercrime service DragonForce, also claimed to have attempted an attack on London's Harrods department store. The swift response from Co-op in taking its systems offline likely limited the potential damage and disruption caused by the attack, serving as an example of how quick action can mitigate the effects of a cyber incident. However, rebuilding customer trust and ensuring stronger defenses are in place for future incidents remain significant challenges for the company.
BBC