FMCG operator Lion has suffered a cyber attack, causing disruption to suppliers and customers.
Industry supplier Toll, Uniqlo, Kathmandu and Sephora have all endured cyber crime incidents in recent times.
Lion has shut down key operations in a bid to address the issue.
Webroot security analyst Tyler Moffitt said it is a warning for retailers to check their systems.
“Although the cause of the Lion Australia attack and the extent of the damage done is not known yet, it was only a matter of time before a FMCG company fell victim to cybercriminals.
“Consumer goods and retail businesses have become increasingly attractive to hackers because they have access to and likely store sensitive personal data from their interactions with the everyday consumer.
“This personal data, which can then be used for nefarious purposes like phishing or identity theft, can fetch a high price on the dark web.
“Companies successfully targeted by cyber-attacks can be left feeling the effects of the disruption long after systems are restored, because it also impacts the brand’s reputation and consumer trust.
”Additionally, the ramifications and fines of consumer privacy laws like GDPR can make it even harder. From a reputation protection standpoint, being in the spotlight for data breaches is not at all good for business.
“This wakeup call is an opportunity to re-evaluate cybersecurity processes – more than ever, cyber resilience planning needs to be a key priority and integrated into every aspect of the business.”