Ukraine’s largest home improvement retailer disrupted by cyberattack
Epicentr, Ukraine’s biggest home improvement retailer, recently faced a significant disruption due to a large-scale cyberattack. The breach impacted operations at numerous stores across the country, rendering sales registers and logistics services inoperable. Shoppers found themselves unable to make purchases as checkout systems went down, with many also struggling to access deliveries and the company’s app and website.
In a statement, Epicentr confirmed that it suffered a targeted attack, describing it as a “deliberate attack by malicious actors” that severely affected its infrastructure. While the retailer has not confirmed the use of ransomware or specified the group behind the attack, ongoing issues with their accounting systems and missing financial records have hampered their ability to produce necessary tax reports.
Despite most stores resuming operations, customers have been warned about potential delays in online order deliveries and issues with parcel tracking at shopping centres. Epicentr employs around 29,000 people and ranks among Ukraine’s largest private companies.
Ukrainian companies remain targets
This incident marks the third major cyberattack on a Ukrainian corporation recently. In January, leading agribusiness firm MHP reported a severe cyber incident; March’s targeted state-owned railway operator Ukrzaliznytsia faced disruptions in their ticketing services. Alongside cyberattacks, Epicentr and other firms continue to be targeted by missile strikes since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The article highlights the ongoing vulnerability of businesses in Ukraine amidst the war, as large retailers globally remain prime targets for cybercriminals.
Key Points
- Epicentr faced a large-scale cyberattack that disrupted operations across its stores in Ukraine.
- Customers were unable to make purchases due to downed checkout systems and logistical issues.
- The company confirmed a targeted attack but has not identified the perpetrators or confirmed ransomware involvement.
- Ongoing operational disruptions impact online order deliveries and financial reporting capabilities.
- This incident is part of a larger pattern of cyberattacks targeting various Ukrainian businesses amidst ongoing conflict.
Why should I read this?
If you’re curious about the increasing threats businesses face from cyberattacks, especially in conflict zones, this article gives you a front-row seat to a significant incident affecting one of Ukraine’s major retailers. It’s a wake-up call to the risks lurking in the digital space, highlighting the importance of robust cybersecurity measures in today’s tumultuous environment.