Co-op customers should notice more products on the shelves starting this weekend. The company announced that it is restarting its online ordering system for suppliers after dealing with a cyber-attack.
This cyber-attack caused problems with payments and led to many products being out of stock in stores. It also compromised the data of customers and staff.
The attackers, connected to a cybercrime group called DragonForce, say they also attacked Marks and Spencer (M&S) and attempted to hack Harrods earlier this month.
Co-op is bringing its systems back online carefully to ensure safety. Earlier this month, cyber criminals tried to extort money from Co-op, and the company shut down some IT systems to limit the damage. This action caused major delivery disruptions.
Shoppers have posted pictures showing empty shelves, especially in rural areas where Co-op might be the only large grocery store.
Co-op is working to improve stock levels both in stores and online. All payment systems are now functioning again. In a statement, the company thanked its staff, partners, and suppliers for their support.
However, experts warn that the effects of this cyber-attack will last for a while. They say rebuilding trust with customers can be difficult, and people may hesitate to share personal information in the future.
Vocabulary List:
- Cyber-attack /ˈsaɪ.bər əˌtæk/ (noun): An attempt to damage or disrupt a computer network or system.
- Compromised /ˈkɒmprəmaɪzd/ (verb): Made vulnerable to attack or danger.
- Extort /ɪkˈstɔːrt/ (verb): To obtain something especially money through force or threats.
- Disruptions /dɪsˈrʌpʃənz/ (noun): Interruptions that prevent an event organization or process from continuing normally.
- Rural /ˈrʊə.rəl/ (adjective): Relating to the countryside rather than the town.
- Stock levels /stɒk ˈlɛvəlz/ (noun): The amount of products or goods available for sale.
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