Phase Eight Owner Investigates Cyber Security Incident

TFG London, the owner of fashion brands Phase Eight, Hobbs, and Whistles, is investigating a cyber-security incident that began on Sunday and has affected some of its IT systems. The UK arm of the retail conglomerate The Foschini Group confirmed the incident, stating it is working with external cyber security specialists.

While the company's physical stores are operating as usual, some website capabilities may be temporarily unavailable. TFG London has apologized to customers for any disruption caused and indicated that further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses. The company reportedly informed customers via email that it does not currently believe payment information has been compromised, but is continuing to assess whether any sensitive customer data was impacted.

Customers whose personal information may have been affected will be directly notified, according to the email. TFG London has advised that it does not believe it is necessary for customers to change their account login information at this time.

Meanwhile, H&M is reportedly investigating a separate claim of a cyber-attack attributed to a known hacking group. The frequency of such attacks on major fashion brands has been noted by security experts. Beverley Griffiths, a senior lecturer in security and resilience at Bucks New University, told PA that these incidents are a "clear sign that major brands are firmly in the crosshairs of cyber attackers." She added that no organization is immune and that the ability to detect, respond, and recover from an incident quickly, while keeping customers informed, is a critical test of resilience. Griffiths also advised customers to remain vigilant and cautious of suspicious communications.