Arrests in investigation into cyber attacks on M&S and Harrods

Four young suspects have been arrested in connection with the recent cyber attacks on Marks & Spencer and luxury department store Harrods.

Major damage

The British National Crime Agency has arrested four suspects: two men aged 19, a boy aged 17 and a woman aged 20. They are charged with violation of the Computer Misuse Act, extortion, money laundering and participation in organised crime, British media report. All four were arrested at their homes, with their electronic devices confiscated for analysis. They remain in custody for questioning.

The cyber attack caused major damage to retailers: Marks & Spencer even had to completely shut down online operations for weeks and saw valuable stock lost. The retailer also risks a claim from customers: in total, the affair could have an impact of 350 million euros on the retailer’s profits.

More retail companies did fall victim to cyber attacks recently: LVMH, Adidas and Ahold Delhaize, among others.