By AIDAN RADNEDGE, SENIOR NEWS REPORTER Published: 22:57 BST, 26 September 2025 | Updated: 22:59 BST, 26 September 2025
Harrods has warned some customers that their personal data could have been taken in an IT systems breach - in the latest cyber-attack to hit a major UK firm.The luxury department store based in London's Knightsbridge said information, such as names and contact details, of its e-commerce customers was taken after one of its third-party provider systems was compromised.In a statement, Harrods said: 'We have been notified by one of our third-party providers that some Harrods e-commerce customers' personal data has been taken from one of their systems.'We have informed affected customers that the impacted personal data is limited to basic personal identifiers including name and contact details but does not include account passwords or payment details.'The third party has confirmed this is an isolated incident which has been contained, and we are working closely with them to ensure that all appropriate actions are being taken. We have notified all relevant authorities.'In May, Harrods restricted internet access across its sites as a precautionary measure after an attempt to gain unauthorised access to its systems.The spokesman added: 'No Harrods system has been compromised and it is important to note that the data was taken from a third-party provider and is unconnected to attempts to gain unauthorised access to some Harrods systems earlier this year.'In July, four people who were arrested for their suspected involvement in damaging cyber attacks against Marks & Spencer, the Co-op and Harrods, were bailed pending further inquiries.Harrods has warned some customers that their personal data could have been taken in an IT systems breach - pictured is the firm's flagship department store in Knightsbridge, LondonThese were two men aged 19, a 17 year-old boy and a 20-year-old woman They were arrested on suspicion of blackmail, money laundering, offences linked to the Computer Misuse Act, and participating in the activities of an organised crime group, according to the National Crime Agency.The latest warning by Harrods comes after Britain’s largest car-maker Jaguar Land Rover last month suffered a devastating hack that threatens to cost it billions.The strike has forced JLR to suspend factory production and the stoppage is expected to last into next month.Union and politicians have warned some small suppliers, which produce parts for the car giant, could collapse without urgent financial support.About 1,000 vehicles a day usually roll off its production lines in the West Midlands and Merseyside but JLR paused production at the end of August after being targeted by hackers.Its engine manufacturing site in Wolverhampton has also been paused.Earlier this week, JLR extended its pause in production until next month as it continues to tackle the impact of the shutdown.But it is feared it could last until November, depriving it of £3.5billion in revenue and £250million of profit.Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he is 'really concerned' about the impact on JLR and the businesses in its supply chain, with the Department for Business working around the clock on the issue.The Government is now considering buying component parts typically used by JLR from their suppliers in order to keep them trading until production restarts at the car giant.Another option being considering would involve Government-backed loans for suppliers, while it could also purchase and stockpile car parts - though reports have suggested ministers would rule out a Covid furlough-style rescue scheme.
