Cybersecurity is no longer an issue confined to technology companies or multinational corporations. Recent events, such as the cyber-attack linked to Marks & Spencer (M&S), highlight that even the most well-established brands can be affected through vulnerabilities in their supply chain.

For schools and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK, the lessons are clear: cybersecurity needs to be taken seriously across all sectors and at every level.

The M&S Cyber-Attack: What Happened?

In late April 2025, Marks & Spencer revealed that some of its employee data had been compromised following a breach at a third-party supplier. Although M&S confirmed that its core systems and customer data remained secure, sensitive information related to employees, including names, addresses, and bank details, may have been accessed.

The breach has been linked to a well-known hacking group called Scattered Spider, notorious for exploiting vulnerabilities in widely used IT tools. Reports from BBC News, The Guardian, and Bleeping Computer have confirmed that this was part of a wider attack involving ransomware and extortion tactics. The breach occurred through a vulnerability in a third-party file transfer tool, a technique increasingly favoured by cybercriminal groups targeting supply chains.

While M&S managed the situation swiftly and limited direct damage, the incident starkly illustrates that even organisations with strong internal cybersecurity measures can be exposed through their external partners.

Why This Matters for UK Schools and SMEs

Although a major retailer like M&S may seem distant from the world of schools and smaller businesses, the underlying cybersecurity risks are remarkably similar.

1. Supply Chain Vulnerabilities

Most schools and SMEs depend on a wide network of suppliers, from IT support providers to cloud-based services for payroll, finance, and communication. A security breach at any point in the supply chain can expose sensitive organisational data, even if your internal systems are secure.

2. Employee and Student Data at Risk

While businesses must protect employee and customer data, schools must protect even more sensitive information, including pupil records. Any breach could have serious legal, financial, and reputational consequences under UK GDPR regulations.

3. Evolving Tactics by Cybercriminals

Groups like Scattered Spider do not limit their attacks to high-profile organisations. Their methods, including phishing, social engineering, and supply chain attacks, are increasingly targeting smaller institutions that may have fewer security resources.

4. Compliance Requirements

Failing to manage cybersecurity risks properly can result in fines from regulatory bodies, particularly for schools and organisations handling large volumes of personal data.

 

Practical Steps to Improve Cybersecurity

Given the risks, here are simple but vital steps schools and SMEs can take to strengthen their cybersecurity posture:

  • Review Supplier Security: Ensure that all third-party providers comply with appropriate cybersecurity standards and policies.
  • Staff Awareness Training: Regularly train staff to recognise phishing attempts, suspicious links, and social engineering tactics.
  • Data Backup and Recovery Plans: Maintain secure, regular backups of critical data, with clear plans for restoration in case of an attack.
  • Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an additional layer of security to login processes, making it harder for attackers to gain access.
  • Update and Patch Systems Promptly: Regular software updates close known vulnerabilities that cybercriminals often exploit.
  • Develop an Incident Response Plan: Know what to do if an attack happens: who to contact, how to communicate, and how to limit damage.

How Link ICT Can Help Protect Your Organisation

At Link ICT, we understand that cybersecurity is critical, but also complex. Many schools and SMEs struggle to know where to start, or how to maintain strong digital protections over time.

Our services are designed to make cybersecurity straightforward, effective, and affordable for UK organisations:

  • Cybersecurity Audits and Assessments: We identify weaknesses in your internal systems and supply chain.
  • Ongoing Monitoring and Support: We offer proactive threat detection and continuous IT support.
  • Staff Training Programmes: We help build a culture of cyber-awareness within your team.
  • Incident Response Planning: We prepare you for the unexpected, helping to minimise disruption and damage.

Do not wait for a cyber-attack to reveal your vulnerabilities.
Contact Link ICT today to find out how we can strengthen your cybersecurity and safeguard your future.