Iconic UK high street Harrods store warns customers after cyber criminals steal details

The luxury Knightsbridge department store 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

Harrods has alerted certain customers that their personal information may have been compromised following a security breach affecting its IT systems. The upmarket Knightsbridge retailer confirmed that details including names and contact information belonging to its online shoppers were accessed after a breach at one of its third-party supplier systems.

In a statement, Harrods explained: “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.”, as reported by City AM.

Back in May, Harrods took the precautionary step of limiting internet access across its premises following an attempted unauthorised breach of its systems.

A spokesperson emphasised: “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.”

Back in July, four individuals, including two 19 year old men, a 17 year old lad and a 20 year old woman, were arrested on suspicion of being involved in damaging cyber attacks against Marks & Spencer, the Co-op and Harrods. They were later released on bail while investigations continue.

The group was arrested on suspicion of blackmail, money laundering, offences related to the Computer Misuse Act, and participation in an organised crime group, as per the National Crime Agency.

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