Following the confirmed cyberattack on the Co-op, scammers are likely to seize the opportunity to exploit fear, confusion, and uncertainty. Cybercriminals have claimed responsibility for stealing the personal data of up to 6.5 million members, including names, email addresses, phone numbers, postal addresses, and membership card details.
With personal data potentially in criminal hands, there is a high risk of targeted scams. Even if you haven’t yet been told your data has been stolen, it’s vital to stay alert.
Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself:
Following the Co-op data breach, scammers may pose as:
- Co-op customer service representatives
- Banks or card providers “flagging suspicious activity”
- Legal firms offering bogus compensation claims
- Fraud prevention services asking you to verify identity details.
These attempts can seem urgent, well-designed, and convincing. They may come via email, text message, social media, or even phone calls. The goal is simple: to get you to click a link, hand over personal information, or install malicious software.
Common scam tactics to watch for following the Co-op data breach:
Phishing emails disguised as Co-op messages
Scammers may send emails that appear to come from Co-op, using official-looking branding and logos. These emails may say there’s an issue with your membership or recent purchases and urge you to click a link to “resolve” it. That link usually leads to a fake login page or malware site.
Tip: Hover over any links before clicking. Check the domain carefully. If unsure, visit the official Co-op website by typing it directly into your browser.
Smishing texts asking you to verify your account
Fraudsters may send texts saying suspicious activity has occurred on your account or that you need to verify a refund. These messages often contain links to fake verification pages or malicious downloads.
Tip: Never trust a link in a text message unless you are absolutely sure of the sender. Real companies won’t ask you to submit sensitive details by SMS.
Fake websites mimicking the Co-op portal
Some scam campaigns may direct you to fake websites designed to look like the official Co-op site. These sites can appear in search results, emails, or ads and are built to steal login credentials, payment info, or even collect “support tickets” laced with personal data.
Tip: The official Co-op website is https://www.coop.co.uk. Watch out for misspellings, added characters, or suspicious domain endings like “.support” or “.claims”.
Phone calls promising compensation - at a cost
Scammers may call pretending to be from Co-op, a law firm, or a data protection service, offering you compensation. But there’s a catch: you’ll need to provide bank details or pay a “processing fee.”
Tip: No legitimate claim process will ask you to pay upfront or share sensitive financial data over the phone.
Poorly written messages designed to spark panic
Many fraudulent emails and texts rely on urgency rather than accuracy. These messages often contain spelling mistakes or odd formatting but push you to act quickly with messages like “Your account has been locked” or “Act now to avoid penalties.”
Tip: Don’t rush. Take a moment to verify the message. Contact Co-op directly using trusted channels if something feels off.
What you should do to stay safe following the Co-op breach
Whether your data was directly involved or not, now is the time to be cautious. Scammers thrive on confusion and emotion, especially after breaches like this one.
Key steps to protect yourself:
Following the Co-op data breach, scammers may use what they know about you to appear legitimate. Stay calm, stay vigilant, and never be pressured into making a quick decision.
- Do not click on suspicious links or open unexpected attachments: Always verify the sender, especially if the message asks for action. If in doubt, go directly to the official Co-op website instead of clicking anything.
- Never share sensitive information: Co-op and legitimate partners will never ask for passwords, card numbers, or National Insurance details via email, text, or cold calls.
- Check the source yourself: Visit Co-op’s official website or use its verified app. Avoid using links sent via third-party messages.
- Report scams to Action Fraud: If you receive a suspicious message, call, or see a fake site, report it at Action Fraud. This helps protect others, too.
Could you join a Co-op data breach claim?
Lawyers are now considering legal action on behalf of those affected by the Co-op data breach. If you’ve been notified that your data was compromised, you may be entitled to join a Co-op data breach claim for compensation.
Think you might be eligible? Our simple checker provides instant clarity. Answer a few straightforward questions, and you’ll know if you could qualify to join a future data breach group action.
