Cybercriminals have reportedly stolen the names, pictures, and addresses of approximately 8,000 children from the Kido nursery chain. The gang has demanded a ransom from the company, which operates 18 sites around London and additional locations in the US, India, and China, according to the BBC.
The hackers claim to also possess information about the children's parents and carers, as well as safeguarding notes. As part of their extortion tactics, they have contacted some individuals by phone. Kido has not yet confirmed the breach or released a public statement.
An employee at one of the nurseries told the BBC they had been notified of a data breach. The Metropolitan Police confirmed they received a referral on Thursday regarding a ransomware attack on a London-based organisation, with enquiries ongoing and no arrests made.
The Information Commissioner's Office stated that Kido International has reported an incident and they are assessing the information provided. This attack follows a series of cyber incidents affecting other UK companies, including the Co-op and JLR.
