Four individuals have been arrested in the UK as part of a National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation into recent cyber attacks that targeted major retailers M&S, Co-op, and Harrods.
The arrests took place on 10 July in London and the West Midlands. Those apprehended include two males aged 19, another aged 17, and a 20-year-old female. They were arrested on suspicion of offences under the Computer Misuse Act, blackmail, money laundering, and participating in the activities of an organised crime group.
All four suspects were detained at their home addresses, and their electronic devices were seized for digital forensic analysis. They currently remain in custody for questioning by officers from the NCA’s National Cyber Crime Unit in connection with the three attacks, which occurred in April of this year.
Deputy Director Paul Foster, head of the NCA’s National Cyber Crime Unit, stated: “Since these attacks took place, specialist NCA cybercrime investigators have been working at pace and the investigation remains one of the Agency’s highest priorities. Today’s arrests are a significant step in that investigation but our work continues, alongside partners in the UK and overseas, to ensure those responsible are identified and brought to justice.”
Mr Foster also thanked the affected retailers for their cooperation: “Cyber attacks can be hugely disruptive for businesses and I’d like to thank M&S, Co-op and Harrods for their support to our investigations. Hopefully this signals to future victims the importance of seeking support and engaging with law enforcement as part of the reporting process. The NCA and policing are here to help.”
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