Latest news with #MARKS&Spencer
Scottish Sun
08-07-2025
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Major M&S boss reveals criminal gang behind crippling cyber attack
The cybergang is believed to have been founded in 2023 Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) MARKS & Spencer has revealed that hacker group "DragonForce" was behind the cyberattack that shut down its online shopping for six weeks. Chairman Archie Norman told UK lawmakers the attack crippled M&S's automated warehouse in Castle Donington, which is set to be back online imminently. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Norman said it might take up to 18 months to get the insurance payout for the attack Credit: Getty The breach disrupted operations in April and May, forcing the retailer to scramble to restore its systems. The hack saw click and collect services across UK stores go down, as well as customer information stolen. The group originally suspected to be behind the cyber attack was "Scattered Spider" - a notorious cyber criminal-collective. However, it's now confirmed that the attack was carried out by DragonForce. DragonForce creates ransomware that locks up a victim's files and rents it out to other criminals. A group of young, English-speaking hackers is thought to be using DragonForce's tools to attack companies. These hackers steal data and demand a ransom to unlock the files and prevent the stolen information from being leaked. The attack on M&S began on Saturday, April 19, with customers unable to collect purchases or return items. On April 21, M&S acknowledged the attack, apologised for the inconvenience, and engaged cyber security experts while notifying the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO). Despite M&S' efforts to restore systems, disruptions continued throughout the week, forcing the retailer to make operational adjustments, including suspending online and app orders on Friday, April 24. NSA warns cellphone users to change 'dangerous' message setting now or risk device being 'cloned' – it takes 3 clicks This decision led to a 5% drop in the company's share price. Shoppers reported empty shelves in some stores with staple items including bananas, fish, and the iconic Colin the Caterpillar cakes hard find in some shops. On May 13, M&S confirmed that some customer information had been stolen in the attack. On Wednesday, May 21, M&S said that disruption from the attack is expected to continue through July. Timeline of cyber attack Saturday, April 19: Initial reports emerge on social media of problems with contactless payments and click-and-collect services at M&S stores across the UK. Customers experience difficulties collecting online purchases and returning items due to system issues. Initial reports emerge on social media of problems with contactless payments and click-and-collect services at M&S stores across the UK. Customers experience difficulties collecting online purchases and returning items due to system issues. Monday, April 21: Problems with contactless payments and click-and-collect persist. M&S officially acknowledges the "cyber incident" in a statement to the London Stock Exchange. CEO Stuart Machin apologises for the disruption and confirms "minor, temporary changes" to store operations. M&S notifies the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and engages external cybersecurity experts. Problems with contactless payments and click-and-collect persist. M&S officially acknowledges the "cyber incident" in a statement to the London Stock Exchange. CEO Stuart Machin apologises for the disruption and confirms "minor, temporary changes" to store operations. M&S notifies the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and engages external cybersecurity experts. Tuesday, April 22: Disruptions continue. M&S takes further systems offline as part of "proactive management". Disruptions continue. M&S takes further systems offline as part of "proactive management". Wednesday, April 23: Despite earlier claims of customer-facing systems returning to normal, M&S continues to adjust operations to maintain security. Contactless payments are initially restored, but other services, including click-and-collect, remain affected. Despite earlier claims of customer-facing systems returning to normal, M&S continues to adjust operations to maintain security. Contactless payments are initially restored, but other services, including click-and-collect, remain affected. Thursday, April 24: Contactless payments and click-and-collect services are still unavailable. Reports surface suggesting the attackers possibly gained access to data in February. Contactless payments and click-and-collect services are still unavailable. Reports surface suggesting the attackers possibly gained access to data in February. Friday, April 25: M&S suspends all online and app orders in the UK and Ireland for clothing and food, although customers can still browse products. This decision leads to a 5% drop in M&S's share price. M&S suspends all online and app orders in the UK and Ireland for clothing and food, although customers can still browse products. This decision leads to a 5% drop in M&S's share price. Monday, April 28: M&S is still unable to process online orders. Around 200 agency workers at the main distribution centre are told to stay home. M&S is still unable to process online orders. Around 200 agency workers at the main distribution centre are told to stay home. Tuesday, April 29: Information suggests that the hacker group Scattered Spider is likely behind the attack. Shoppers spot empty shelves in selected stores. Information suggests that the hacker group Scattered Spider is likely behind the attack. Shoppers spot empty shelves in selected stores. Tuesday, May 13: M&S revealed that some customer information has been stolen. M&S revealed that some customer information has been stolen. Wednesday, May 21: The retailer said disruption from the attack is expected to continue through to July. Click and collect, next day delivery and UK nominated day delivery for fashion items are still unavailable with services set to be restored "as soon as possible". However, the retailer reintroduced a selection of third-party brands to its website last week, including Adidas, Columbia, and Lilybod. Meanwhile, the high street giant has reduced its standard home delivery wait times from 10 days to five for customers in England, Scotland and Wales. The M&S website also says home delivery in Northern Ireland will resume "in the coming weeks". M&S is now strengthening its cybersecurity measures to prevent future attacks as it works to fully recover from the disruption.
Scottish Sun
28-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
I tested quirky snacks from hot honey Jaffa Cakes to spicy cookie dough bites – some could easily become regular buys
Scroll for a Greggs quick stomach-filler perfect for those out and about in the heat SNACK ATTACK I tested quirky snacks from hot honey Jaffa Cakes to spicy cookie dough bites – some could easily become regular buys Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) MARKS & Spencer has aced it by serving up a Wimbledon-inspired sweet sandwich – with shoppers queuing up to try it. Launched last week, the £2.80 Red Diamond Strawberry & Creme sarnie, made with strawberries, whipped cream cheese and sweetened bread, has been flying out of stores. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 7 Charlotte Owen tries out the bizarre new supermarket snacks Credit: Ben Lack But that is not the only unexpected food offering this summer. If you thought a dessert sarnie – inspired by the viral Japanese fruit sando – was quirky, Charlotte Owen reveals other strange-flavoured snacks you might like to try. Subway Grand Slam £1.55 7 The Subway Grand Slam is only available tomorrow BE quick, this is available tomorrow only – to celebrate the start of the Wimbeldon tennis. The sandwich chain has piggy-backed the strawberries-and-cream trend after M&S's success. It describes its take as a 'delicious rally between sweet and savoury'. But the carb-heavy sub version of the viral sarnie may only catch the eye of people who were not able to get one of the Marks & Spencer version. While it offers a healthy dose of cream and strawberries, the amount of bread in a bite looks to be about double that of what you get inside. Subway hopes to serve a winner by giving away 500 of the overwhelming sandwiches for free at Wimbledon tomorrow. Or grab yours at other select branches of the chain. Greggs taste test Greggs Lemon Meringue Muffin 114g, £1.55 7 Greggs Lemon Meringue Muffin is a cheap delight for those wanting to pick up a summery snack Credit: Ben Lack A LIGHT, sweet treat that does everything you would expect it to do. It is a cheap delight for those wanting to pick up a summery snack. With a bit of jam in the middle to give it a kick, the fresh lemon meringue icing on the top is a proper taste of summer and the lemon sherbet shards pack a punch. Greggs is known for its easy food on the go, and this is no exception. It's a quick stomach-filler for those out and about in the heat. Doughlicious Extra Flamin' Hot Cookie Dough & Gelato Bites 192g, £5 7 Pick up some Doughlicious Extra Flamin' Hot Cookie Dough & Gelato Bites for £5 Credit: Supplied IF there is one thing you don't expect from gelato, it's a burst of heat – but that's what you get with these snacks. The birdseye chilli-infused cookie-dough coating works in tandem with the ghost chilli- infused gelato to create a fire-and-ice effect. It's an interesting idea but not everyone will like the extra kick that comes with the added spice. Gü Mango Chilli Cheesecake 2 x 96g, £3.75 7 The mango-chilli compote and mascarpone cheesecake make for an indulgent and tropical flavour profile Credit: Supplied HERE'S a combination that works just perfectly. The mango-chilli compote and mascarpone cheesecake make for an indulgent and tropical flavour profile with just a hint of heat. As if that is not decadent enough, the dessert also features layers of chocolate ganache, salted caramel and a sprinkle of crunchy chocolate pieces for an irresistible touch of texture and a base of cocoa biscuit. You can enjoy this five-layer treat cold or whack it in the microwave and experience its molten- chocolate centre. What's not to love? Pizza Express Hawaiian Hot Dough Balls £7.95 7 Pizza Express have unveiled their Hawaiian Hot Dough Balls Credit: Supplied THIS take on a Pizza Express classic reignites the perennial debate about pineapples on pizza. The dough balls are served with crispy pancetta and pieces of the fruit, with a 'fiery' pineapple-and- Habanero sauce. If you like your Italian feast a bit sweet, this could well be just the thing for you. If you're on the other side of the debate, the bizarre flavour combination won't do anything to change your mind. The supposedly fiery sauce you get is not even hot enough to bring a kick to this unusual dish. McVitie's Jaffa Cakes Hot Honey £1.50. On sale from next month 7 Next month, try McVitie's Hot Honey Jaffa Cakes for just £1.50 Credit: Supplied THE makers of the treat we all know and love have taken the biscuit and added a bit of spice. While orange and chocolate are already a great combination, the addition of hot honey is sure to delight those with an even sweeter tooth. These could easily become a regular buy on supermarket shopping trips.
Scottish Sun
13-06-2025
- Business
- Scottish Sun
M&S reveals new summer cafe menu including Matilda cake dupe and Eton mess milkshake
M&S has taken a classic favourite to a whole new level – scroll down! Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) MARKS & Spencer has unveiled a brand-new summer menu at its cafés across the UK, featuring more than 30 exciting new dishes, cakes, and drinks. Designed to reflect the sunny season, the new offerings are sure to attract customers looking for something fresh and indulgent. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 A customer is seen at the British multinational retailer Marks & Spencer Credit: Getty 4 A general view of a Marks and Spencer M&S Foodhall supermarket Credit: Getty 4 M&S in London, England Credit: Getty Available in M&S cafés nationwide, the new menu includes a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dessert options. For those who like to start their day with something substantial, the Pesto Eggs, Halloumi & Asparagus (£9.95) is a hearty choice. If you're stopping by for lunch, the Hot & Crunchy Sandwiches (£7.50) offer a more casual but equally delicious option. The sandwiches, available in two flavours – Pesto Chicken and Spicy Tuna – are lightly toasted, crispy, and served with smashed avocado and rocket. For dessert, M&S has added some exciting new sweet treats to their café menu. Among the standouts is the Mini Bite Showstopper Cake (£5.50), which features layers of rich chocolate sponge and buttercream, topped with crunchy cornflakes and double chocolate mini bites. This cake is certainly one of the standout new offerings. But for those who remember the famous Matilda cake from the beloved movie, M&S has crafted a similar version that captures all the delicious indulgence of the iconic treat. Fans of classic treats will enjoy the Ultimate Cookie Sandwich (£2.50), where two soft butter cookies are filled with creamy Belgian chocolate ganache. In addition to the cakes, the café's drink menu has also received a summer makeover. The previously popular Iced Matcha has been replaced with the Iced Wild Strawberry Matcha, which combines the smoothness of matcha with the fruity taste of wild strawberries. This new drink promises to be a refreshing choice for the warmer months. For those with a serious sweet tooth, the Eton Mess Milkshake (£4.25) is a must-try. A twist on the classic British dessert, the milkshake is made with strawberry and raspberry flavours, topped with whipped cream, freeze-dried raspberries, and mini meringues. The full summer menu is available at M&S cafés across the UK, offering plenty of choice for every taste.
The Irish Sun
30-05-2025
- Business
- The Irish Sun
Marks & Spencer urgently recalls popular baby product due to ‘safety complaints' & warns ‘return it immediately'
MARKS & Spencer has urgently recalled a popular baby product due to customer "safety complaints". The retail giant has warned buyers that they must return the item immediately. Advertisement 1 Marks and Spencer have urgently recalled a popular baby item Credit: Getty Polarn O. Pyret Branded Poppy Print Rompers have been recalled due to safety complaints. Parents and carers of little ones have been asked to check their homes to see if they have the affected product. The recall has been made for the T94 8409A model in size 1-12 months old, which was sold online at M&S. The company said: "Polarn O. Pyret has issued a Product Recall due to safety complaints with their Poppy Print Romper, T94 8409A in the specified sizes 1-12 Months". Advertisement The online-only product means that affected items were not available to purchase from physical M&S stores during the original purchase period. Those who bought the romper or received it as a gift have been urged to "return it immediately" at any M&S Clothing store. A full refund will be issued upon return. M&S have said that further support is also being offered and if customers have further questions, they can call the company's customer service line at 0333 014 8555. M&S has apologised for any inconvenience caused to shoppers. Advertisement Most read in The Sun The news comes after a popular car seat has been banned by trading authorities over "serious" suffocation fears. And sold in the UK that pose a fire risk as owners are told to 'stop using immediately'. Milk is urgently pulled from shelves over traces of deadly bacteria which kills one in 20 In another product recall - There was also an urgent recall of popular product bought on TikTok over the Advertisement A Health food brand also Your product recall rights Chief consumer reporter James Flanders reveals all you need to know. Product recalls are an important means of protecting consumers from dangerous goods. As a general rule, if a recall involves a branded product, the manufacturer would usually have lead responsibility for the recall action. But it's often left up to supermarkets to notify customers when products could put them at risk. If you are concerned about the safety of a product you own, always check the manufacturer's website to see if a safety notice has been issued. When it comes to appliances, rather than just food items, the onus is usually on you - the customer - to register the appliance with the manufacturer as if you don't there is no way of contacting you to tell you about a fault. If you become aware that an item you own has been recalled or has any safety noticed issued against it, make sure you follow the instructions given to you by the manufacturer. They should usually provide you with more information and a contact number on its safety notice. In some cases, the manufacturer might ask you to return the item for a full refund or arrange for the faulty product to be collected. You should not be charged for any recall work - such as a repair, replacement or collection of the recalled item It came after Lidl recently told shoppers not to eat one of its savoury snacks over fears it could contain And just last month, Iceland recalled its Vegetable Lasagne after the possible presence of hard plastic pieces was discovered in packs with best-before dates of 23 July 2026 and 30 July 2026. Advertisement A
Scottish Sun
30-05-2025
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Marks & Spencer urgently recalls popular baby product due to ‘safety complaints' & warns ‘return it immediately'
Scroll down for more information about recent product recalls MARKS & Spencer has urgently recalled a popular baby product due to customer "safety complaints". The retail giant has warned buyers that they must return the item immediately. Advertisement 1 Marks and Spencer have urgently recalled a popular baby item Credit: Getty Polarn O. Pyret Branded Poppy Print Rompers have been recalled due to safety complaints. Parents and carers of little ones have been asked to check their homes to see if they have the affected product. The recall has been made for the T94 8409A model in size 1-12 months old, which was sold online at M&S. The company said: "Polarn O. Pyret has issued a Product Recall due to safety complaints with their Poppy Print Romper, T94 8409A in the specified sizes 1-12 Months". Advertisement Retail News CHOC SHOCK Major bargain retailer slashes price of huge box of popular chocolate The online-only product means that affected items were not available to purchase from physical M&S stores during the original purchase period. Those who bought the romper or received it as a gift have been urged to "return it immediately" at any M&S Clothing store. A full refund will be issued upon return. M&S have said that further support is also being offered and if customers have further questions, they can call the company's customer service line at 0333 014 8555. M&S has apologised for any inconvenience caused to shoppers. Advertisement The news comes after a popular car seat has been banned by trading authorities over "serious" suffocation fears. And an urgent warning was issued about tumble dryers sold in the UK that pose a fire risk as owners are told to 'stop using immediately'. Milk is urgently pulled from shelves over traces of deadly bacteria which kills one in 20 In another product recall - milk was urgently pulled from shelves over traces of deadly bacteria which kills one in 20. There was also an urgent recall of popular product bought on TikTok over the possibility of an electric shock risk. Advertisement And Asda urgently recalled £12 baby clothing over a 'risk of injury' to tots as parents were warned to 'stop using immediately'. A Health food brand also urgently recalled a popular snack over fears as shoppers warned 'do not eat'. Your product recall rights Chief consumer reporter James Flanders reveals all you need to know. Product recalls are an important means of protecting consumers from dangerous goods. As a general rule, if a recall involves a branded product, the manufacturer would usually have lead responsibility for the recall action. But it's often left up to supermarkets to notify customers when products could put them at risk. If you are concerned about the safety of a product you own, always check the manufacturer's website to see if a safety notice has been issued. When it comes to appliances, rather than just food items, the onus is usually on you - the customer - to register the appliance with the manufacturer as if you don't there is no way of contacting you to tell you about a fault. If you become aware that an item you own has been recalled or has any safety noticed issued against it, make sure you follow the instructions given to you by the manufacturer. They should usually provide you with more information and a contact number on its safety notice. In some cases, the manufacturer might ask you to return the item for a full refund or arrange for the faulty product to be collected. You should not be charged for any recall work - such as a repair, replacement or collection of the recalled item It came after Lidl recently told shoppers not to eat one of its savoury snacks over fears it could contain salmonella. And just last month, Iceland recalled its Vegetable Lasagne after the possible presence of hard plastic pieces was discovered in packs with best-before dates of 23 July 2026 and 30 July 2026. Advertisement A popular pasta sauce was also urgently recalled from supermarket shelves after fears emerged that some jars contained shards of glass.
