Marks & Spencer’s website remains down days after a major cyber attack hit over Easter, exposing customer data and grinding online sales to a halt.
Website Still Offline After Cyber Nightmare
Customers trying to browse M&S’s site are facing a blunt maintenance message: “Sorry you can’t browse the site currently. We’re making some updates and will be back soon.”
But insiders reveal this is far from routine. Instead, a damaging cyber assault has crippled online orders and caused empty shelves in stores nationwide.
The Devastating Attack: What Went Wrong?
M&S confirmed on Wednesday the breach was due to “human error.” The fallout is expected to cost the retail titan a staggering £300 million in lost sales and disruption.
Hackers accessed customers’ sensitive data, including names, emails, addresses, and dates of birth.
Chief Executive Stuart Machin warned the chaos could drag on until July as the firm painstakingly rebuilds its IT systems.
Profit Boom Before the Blow
Despite the hit, M&S announced strong financials—posting an impressive £875.5 million pre-tax profit for the year ending March 2025, up 22.2% on the previous year.
The company had been enjoying a resurgence in both food and clothing sales, but now faces fears over lasting damage to its reputation and operations.
Cybersecurity Crisis Sparks Boardroom Alarm
This attack is a chilling warning to all big businesses.
“The M&S cyber attack is a powerful reminder that no business is immune. Complex, globally connected systems are especially at risk,” security expert Cottrill said.
He called for
- Security-by-design in all new systems
- Regular threat testing to stay ahead of hackers
- Employee training to spot and prevent cyber threats
Customer Alert: Stay Vigilant
M&S has yet to confirm if payment details were compromised but urges customers to reset passwords, closely monitor bank accounts, and stay alert for suspicious activity.
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is involved, along with City of London Police and cybersecurity pros investigating the breach.
What’s Next for Shoppers?
- Full website service is unlikely before mid-summer.
- M&S stores remain open, but some shelves are running low on stock.
- Customers should follow official M&S updates on social media or the M&S app, which is still partially working.
