M&S chief says cyber attack likely instigated by ex-computer gamers

• Marks & Spencer's chairman, Archie Norman, described a cyber attack on the retailer as "traumatic", attributing it to hacking group Scattered Spider and ransomware operation DragonForce.
• The attack, which began in late April, left M&S unable to take online orders for over six weeks, causing significant operational disruption.
• Appearing before MPs, Mr Norman refused to confirm if M&S paid a ransom following the incident, stating that the damage had largely been done.
• M&S estimates the cyber attack will cost around £300 million in lost profits, though it anticipates recovering up to half through cost management and insurance.
• DragonForce, the ransomware operation involved, is believed to be based in Asia and composed of former computer gamers.

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M&S chief says ‘traumatic’ cyber attack was like an out of body experience