UK-based retailer WH Smith has announced that it was the target of a cyber-attack in which company data was illegally accessed, including the personal details of current and former employees.
However, the company said that customer accounts and the customer database were on separate systems and were not affected. This comes almost a year after a cyber-attack on the company’s Funky Pigeon website resulted in a temporary suspension of orders. WH Smith said it has launched an investigation and has informed relevant authorities of the incident.
The retailer has confirmed that no trading impact occurred as a result of the cyber-attack. The company said it has notified all affected colleagues and has taken steps to provide support. WH Smith stated that it is taking the issue of cybersecurity seriously, and investigations are ongoing.
WH Smith has a strong presence in the UK, operating over 1,600 stores worldwide, including a presence in airports and railway stations. The company has reported strong trading recently and is due to release its half-year financial results in April.
The cyber-attack is the latest in a series of high-profile cyber-attacks targeting major companies, highlighting the need for businesses to strengthen their cybersecurity measures to protect against such attacks.
