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As digital threats grow more sophisticated, several US retail corporations have become the latest victims of a notorious hacking group that has rapidly escalated its activity. Over the past 10 days, cybercriminals believed to be affiliated with Scattered Spider have launched multiple ransomware campaigns, prompting increased concern among cybersecurity professionals and law enforcement alike.
I. A Growing Threat in the Retail Sector
1. Scattered Spider’s Renewed Aggression
In recent days, between three and five American retail companies have reported cybersecurity breaches tied to a criminal ring known as Scattered Spider, according to three individuals familiar with the incidents. This group, already infamous for high-profile hacks on major US companies, appears to be intensifying its focus on the retail sector.
Law enforcement agencies, particularly the FBI, have responded swiftly. The bureau is actively briefing major retail organizations, warning them of the renewed threat and advising precautionary measures.
2. Not Just Another Cyber Gang
Scattered Spider differs from typical ransomware groups. Believed to include young hackers based in the US and UK, the group has made a name for itself through aggressive and often public extortion attempts. Their unpredictable behavior and focus on American infrastructure make them particularly dangerous.
Experts say the group does not operate under a strict hierarchy. Instead, it’s a loose collective of skilled attackers who often move in coordinated waves, focusing on one industry at a time for maximum disruption and profit.
II. Real-World Consequences and Company Responses
1. Ahold Delhaize USA Targeted
Among the latest victims is Ahold Delhaize USA, the parent company of well-known grocery brands such as Giant and Food Lion. According to an internal company report reviewed by CNN, hackers successfully accessed one of the company’s US retail locations. Fortunately, the breach was isolated and quickly contained, limiting any broader impact.
Still, the event has raised serious concerns about vulnerability across the retail industry, especially as hackers exploit weaknesses in company infrastructure or staff through phishing and social engineering.
2. Law Enforcement Raises the Alarm
The FBI has reportedly reached out to several retail brands directly to discuss the threat posed by Scattered Spider. The move suggests the government is taking the group’s latest wave of attacks seriously, especially given its history of disruption across other industries.
A spokesperson for Ahold Delhaize declined to comment on the attack, but experts believe their case is far from unique.
3. Broader Industry Impact
John Hultquist, chief analyst at the Google Threat Intelligence Group, confirmed the group’s role in targeting multiple US-based retail organizations. Though he did not disclose specific company names, Hultquist warned that these attacks are consistent with the group’s known methods and strategic approach.
III. UK Retailers Also Under Siege
1. High-Profile Attacks Across the Atlantic
Scattered Spider’s latest campaign doesn’t stop at US borders. British retail powerhouses Harrods and Marks & Spencer also fell victim to ransomware attacks in recent weeks. Among the two, Marks & Spencer appears to have suffered the most, with significant disruption to its online ordering system and the theft of customer data.
Security professionals believe this transatlantic targeting is no coincidence. Instead, it may indicate a calculated shift by Scattered Spider to pressure major corporations on both sides of the Atlantic.
2. Pattern of Targeted Disruption
According to cybersecurity professionals, Scattered Spider has historically zeroed in on a single sector before moving on to another. In September 2023, the group made headlines for its devastating attacks on MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment in Las Vegas. Now, it seems the retail industry is firmly in their crosshairs.
Hultquist emphasized that this isn’t likely to be a one-off event. “We anticipate they will continue to target the sector in the near term,” he stated. “US retailers should take note.”
IV. Industry Reactions and Mitigation Efforts
1. The National Retail Federation Responds
Christian Beckner, Vice President at the National Retail Federation, acknowledged the growing threat posed by groups like Scattered Spider. In a public statement, he emphasized that American retailers are aware of recent attacks on their UK counterparts and are actively working to strengthen their digital defenses.
Over the past two years, many companies have taken steps to improve cybersecurity protocols. This includes investments in advanced detection systems, employee training, and incident response planning. However, the effectiveness of these efforts is now being tested in real time.
2. A Call for Heightened Vigilance
While some attacks have been mitigated without widespread disruption, cybersecurity experts continue to urge companies to remain vigilant. The unpredictable nature of Scattered Spider and their preference for social engineering attacks—such as impersonating IT staff or help desk operators—means even well-defended systems can be compromised by human error.
In particular, companies are being advised to closely monitor user access, strengthen identity verification, and enforce strict protocols for IT interactions.
V. A Warning to the Wider Economy
1. Lessons from Past Incidents
The pattern emerging from these recent attacks reflects a broader cybersecurity trend: hackers are growing bolder and more strategic. The shift from opportunistic breaches to carefully timed and industry-targeted campaigns underscores the need for holistic defense systems that go beyond technical tools.
The fallout from previous Scattered Spider operations—especially those involving Las Vegas entertainment giants—demonstrates the financial and reputational cost of underestimating cyber threats.
2. Cybersecurity is No Longer Optional
As retail becomes increasingly digital, companies face a dual challenge: delivering seamless online experiences while safeguarding sensitive data. The recent wave of attacks should serve as a wake-up call that cybersecurity is not a side concern—it’s a business imperative.
From supply chains to point-of-sale systems, every digital touchpoint represents a potential vulnerability. That’s why experts argue that security must be integrated at every level of business operations, not simply added on as an afterthought.
Conclusion
The recent spate of cyberattacks targeting American and British retail companies highlights the evolving landscape of cybercrime. Groups like Scattered Spider have proven that with coordination, creativity, and a willingness to exploit human error, they can breach even large, well-funded organizations. As law enforcement and cybersecurity experts respond, one thing is clear: the retail sector must remain alert and adaptive if it hopes to fend off future assaults.
