Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has announced plans to resume some production following a cyber-attack that forced the company to halt operations on September 1. This incident impacted manufacturing at its three facilities located in the West Midlands and Merseyside. Initial reports indicate that production is set to recommence at the engine plant in Wolverhampton on October 6, with a phased restart planned for additional facilities. Industry insiders suggest it may take several weeks before production lines return to full capacity.
In communications to its staff, JLR detailed that recovery efforts are progressing, emphasizing a methodical approach to ensure IT systems are restored safely. Preliminary estimations had indicated that production might not resume until at least October 1.
The company is working in collaboration with cybersecurity experts, the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, and law enforcement agencies to facilitate a secure restart. The disruption has caused significant financial strain on JLR’s supply chain, prompting some companies to express concerns over potential bankruptcy. Approximately 30,000 employees work directly at JLR’s UK plants, with another 100,000 dependent on associated firms.
In reaction to the prolonged stoppage, the UK government recently announced £1.5 billion in loan guarantees for JLR to help stabilize supplier businesses. Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated that this funding aims to ensure job security in the business and among its suppliers. JLR representatives noted that the funding would specifically aid suppliers with whom they have direct relationships.
This incident at JLR is part of a wider trend of cyber-attacks affecting companies in the UK, with other businesses, including Harrods, also experiencing breaches that led to significant data thefts.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwydxpdgx61o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss