Asos app users sent 'hacked' message from online retailer

On Tuesday morning, ASOS customers received a phone alert claiming the retailer had been hacked. The message included a link to a Telegram chat threatening to leak customer data unless ASOS engaged with the hackers. Snowflake, an online platform used for storing and analyzing large amounts of data, was cited as being compromised by the alleged attackers.

More than 400 customers reported issues on Downdetector, and ASOS's shares fell almost 12% on the London Stock Exchange. The company acknowledged the issue but stated that it did not believe payment card information or account passwords were impacted, though personal data such as names and contact details may have been accessed.

ASOS has 17 million customers in over 150 countries, with the UK being its largest market at 49% of revenues. The company is currently undergoing a major turnaround program to halt declining sales and return to profit. Previous high-profile retail hacks include those on Marks & Spencer and Harrods.

Cyber experts warn that these incidents create ideal conditions for phishing attacks, urging customers to be wary of potential follow-up communications from ASOS or any other suspicious emails or texts.