Cyber Security & Data Breach Response

Cyber Risk is Operational Risk

In today’s threat landscape, a single cyber breach can bring regulatory penalties, litigation, reputational damage, and operational paralysis. Yet many organisations remain underprepared, with critical gaps in threat detection, response protocols, and digital evidence handling. Cyber Essentials accreditation isn’t just a badge, it’s the minimum viable standard for securing systems and assuring stakeholders. Meridian Edge helps you build resilience by aligning security controls with forensic-grade incident response, so you're ready when it matters most.

Real-world Case Studies

Marks & Spencer: Ransomware Disruption at National Scale

In April 2025, Marks & Spencer was hit by a ransomware attack that disrupted contactless payments and shut down its online ordering systems. The breach – believed to involve SIM-swapping and third-party vendor compromise – occurred over Easter weekend, causing widespread operational fallout. With losses estimated at over £300 million and reputational damage to match, the case illustrates how even digitally-mature retail giants can suffer catastrophic disruption when cyber hygiene and supplier access controls are breached.

Source: Reuters: Marks & Spencer cyber attack (May 2025)

Co-op Group: Data Exposure of 6.5 million members

Mid-2025 saw the Co-op Group targeted in a cyber attack that exposed personal data – names, birth dates, and contact details – of all 6.5 million members. The breach exploited social engineering tactics to access backend systems, highlighting vulnerabilities in staff authentication and endpoint security. While swift action and cooperation with law enforcement averted further escalation, the incident demonstrated how a single compromise can have sweeping implications across trust, compliance, and governance.

Source: Tom's Guide: Co-op cyber attack (July 2025)

KNP Logistics: Collapse of a 158-Year-Old Business

In July 2025, legacy UK transport firm KNP Logistics was forced into closure after ransomware attackers encrypted core systems, backups, and operational infrastructure. The attack originated from a single weak password, ultimately making recovery impossible. With over 700 jobs lost and an historic business dismantled, this case is a stark warning that lacking cyber resilience and incident preparedness can destroy even long-standing, well-insured organisations.

Source: The Times of India: KNP cyber attack (July 2025)

How Meridian Edge Can Help

Implement Cyber Essentials–aligned cyber security fundamentals, including endpoint hygiene, password policy, phishing prevention, and access controls
Bring forensic-grade evidence preservation and incident response readiness, even during third-party vendor or internal IT incidents
Provide controlled drills, breach triage simulations, and post-incident evaluations to preserve chain-of-custody and data integrity
Enhance your digital forensic posture, turning compliance into confidence when facing regulators or litigation.

Get in touch