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DS Risk Warning: Cyber Critical Update

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Critical Update



With thanks to our NPs the S W Cyber Resilience Centre, we bring you their updated advice. Please pay close attention to it, regardless that it flows from the attacks on the retail sector. The approach taken can be applied anywhere!


The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has issued a critical warning following a wave of cyber attacks on major UK retailers including M&S, Co-op and Harrods. These incidents appear to involve criminals impersonating IT help desks to trick staff into revealing login credentials, a technique known as social engineering.

 

We’re issuing this urgent message to all SWCRC members to raise awareness and encourage immediate action.

 

What’s happening?

 

A group calling itself DragonForce has contacted the BBC to claim responsibility for recent breaches. Their tactics include:

       •     Phoning IT staff pretending to be locked-out employees

      •     Calling or messaging staff pretending to be from internal IT help desks

      •     Using fluent English and credible scenarios to gain trust

 

The NCSC believes these attacks resemble those carried out by the notorious “Scattered Spider” group, known for targeting senior staff to gain access to sensitive systems.

 

What should you do now?

 

We recommend the following immediate steps: 

🔐 Review your password reset procedures, especially for senior roles

📞 Introduce internal codewords or other identity checks for staff requesting credential changes

🧠 Reinforce awareness among staff of social engineering tactics

📊 Monitor for unusual login activity, such as logins at odd times or from unexpected locations

 

Further official advice is available here: NCSC Guidance

 

This is a timely reminder that no organisation is too small to be a target – simple procedural improvements can make a huge difference in resilience.


The Cyber Resilience Centre for the South West is excited to be working in partnership with you and your organisation to make the South West region a safer place to live, work and do business.



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