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Date: 25-apr-2025
Marks & Spencer, one of the UK’s most iconic retailers, has hit the brakes on its online and app-based ordering systems after falling victim to a significant cyber attack. The disruption, which began over the Easter weekend in 2025, has left customers unable to place orders for food, clothing, or homeware through the M&S website or apps in the UK and Ireland. As the company scrambles to secure its systems, the incident has sparked fresh concerns about cybersecurity in the retail sector.
The trouble started on April 22, 2025, when M&S first noticed issues with its digital services. Customers reported problems with contactless payments and click-and-collect orders, with some unable to complete transactions as early as Saturday. By April 25, M&S confirmed to the London Stock Exchange that it was dealing with a cyber attack. The retailer promptly notified the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), signaling the severity of the breach.
In a bold move to protect its network, M&S took the drastic step of suspending all online orders. The company described this as a “proactive measure” to contain the attack and prevent further damage. While physical stores remain open, disruptions to click-and-collect services and contactless payments continue to frustrate shoppers.
For loyal M&S customers, the timing couldn’t be worse. With online shopping now a cornerstone of retail, the sudden halt has disrupted everything from grocery deliveries to clothing purchases. Shoppers hoping to use the M&S app for quick orders have been met with error messages, while others have turned to social media to voice their frustrations. One customer on X posted, “No online orders, no click-and-collect—what’s going on, M&S?”
M&S is working around the clock with cybersecurity experts to investigate the attack and restore its systems. The company has emphasized that, so far, there’s no evidence of customer data being compromised—a relief for millions of shoppers. However, the lack of clarity about the attack’s nature (some speculate it could involve ransomware) has kept investors on edge. Following the announcement, M&S shares dropped by 5% on the London Stock Exchange, reflecting market jitters about the incident’s fallout.
“We are taking all necessary steps to protect our customers and our business,” an M&S spokesperson said in a statement. “We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate our customers’ patience as we work to resolve this issue.”
The M&S cyber attack is a stark reminder of the growing threats facing retailers in the digital age. With hackers becoming more sophisticated, businesses that rely heavily on online platforms are prime targets. This incident follows a string of high-profile cyber attacks on UK companies, raising questions about whether retailers are doing enough to safeguard their systems.
For now, M&S customers are left waiting for answers—and their next online order. As the investigation unfolds, the retailer’s ability to bounce back will depend on how quickly it can restore trust and get its digital services back online.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story, and check M&S’s official website or social media for the latest on when online ordering might resume.
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