M&S cyber attacks emphasize risks of hybrid work

Globaldata Surveying has found that almost a quarter of small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) acquired a cyber insurance policy due to an increase in long-distance work. In the meantime, Marks & Spencer (M&S) has experienced a large cyber attack that has wiped around 700 million GBP ($ 932.5 million) from its market value. The concerns that remote access may have created the entry points for cybercriminals required for the violations of the digital defenses of retailers.

According to Globaldata 2025 SME Insurance Survey, 23.4% of the SME stated that they bought cyber insurance due to increased long-distance work. The latest cyber attack on M&S strengthens this problem. While the retailer has not officially blamed remote access, his decision to deactivate virtual private networks (VPNS) that are used by employees suggests internal fears that remote access could possibly have been a weak point. This reflects a broader trend that hybrid working models continue to be risks due to poorly violent home networks, outdated personal devices and fragmented supervision that increasingly exploit cybercriminals.

In the meantime, 26.2% of SMEs cited media reports on cyber attacks as the reason for the purchase of cyber coverage, and the M&S violation probably reinforced this influence. As one of the most recognized retailers of the UK, M&S is expected to sharpen a market value of almost 700 million GBP of the awareness of cyber threats in the entire SME sector. In view of the widespread reporting and the public examination, this incident can make more companies to rethink their exposure and take preventive steps, including the recording or upgrading of cyber insurance policies. Overall, the M&S cyber attack underlines the need for a stronger cyber resistance at the age of the hybrid work. Since top -class violations sharpen awareness of SMEs, the insurers have the opportunity to react with tailor -made cyber products and proactive support that are concerned. Brokers can best be placed to advance this change. Globaldata's 2025 SMU insurance survey shows that brokers (26.7%) are the leading factor that influences the admission of SME cyber insurance.

“M&S Cyberattack raises risks from Hybrid Working” Aus “was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a Globaldata brand.

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