A UK watchdog is warning that cyber criminals targeting online systems within the food supply chain could lead to significant disruptions, following damaging attacks on major retailers last year, according to The Register.
The National Audit Office (NAO) has identified cyber-attacks as a primary threat to the UK's food supply chain, urging the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) to collaborate with the industry on preventative measures. The report highlights that while the sector has demonstrated some resilience, the likelihood and severity of risks are escalating.
Businesses in the food supply chain have already experienced increased operating costs and disruptions to daily operations. For instance, a cyberattack on Marks & Spencer in April 2025 is estimated to cost the retailer around £136 million, impacting its warehouse management systems and subsequently affecting online and in-store orders. Additionally, the Co-op confirmed that a cyberattack last year resulted in the theft of data belonging to 6.5 million of its members.
The NAO report emphasizes that the food supply chain's focus on efficiency has made it more vulnerable to disruptions, and businesses are investing heavily in cybersecurity, though economic pressures are making these investments more challenging.
Source: The Register
Kelley Damore is Chief Content Officer at CyberRisk Alliance, where she leads content strategy across the company’s digital brands, research, communities and live events serving CISOs and security practitioners. At CyberRisk Alliance, she is focused on delivering 365-day engagement, trusted journalism and actionable insights to help security leaders navigate an increasingly complex threat landscape.
Kelley Damore is Chief Content Officer at CyberRisk Alliance, where she leads content strategy across the company’s digital brands, research, communities and live events serving CISOs and security practitioners. At CyberRisk Alliance, she is focused on delivering 365-day engagement, trusted journalism and actionable insights to help security leaders navigate an increasingly complex threat landscape.
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