The recent cyber attack on the Kido nursery chain has sent shockwaves through the cyber security community. Hackers, operating under the name Radiant, claim to have stolen the highly sensitive personal information of around 8,000 children from the organisation’s UK nurseries.
The data reportedly includes names, addresses, photographs, parental contact details, and even safeguarding notes — information that should never fall into the wrong hands.
Worryingly, the attackers have allegedly contacted some parents directly as part of their ransom demands, and have already published samples of the stolen data on the dark web to prove their claims.
“An absolute new low”
Experts have been quick to condemn the attack. Cyber security firm Check Point labelled the incident “an absolute new low,” while the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) described it as “deeply distressing.”
Jonathon Ellison of the NCSC commented:
“Cyber criminals will target anyone if they think there is money to be made, and going after those who look after children is a particularly egregious act.”
Parents speaking to the BBC described the experience as frightening, though some praised the nursery chain’s swift response in notifying families.
Why this matters
This incident underlines a harsh truth: no organisation is too small, too local, or too “caring” to be targeted. Criminals follow the data — and in this case, it’s children’s personal information.
Data breaches like this can have far-reaching consequences, not just for the organisation affected but also for the families and individuals caught up in the fallout.
It’s also another reminder of the importance of:
- Encryption for sensitive data
- Regular cyber security audits and reviews
- Employee training on phishing and social engineering tactics
- Accredited frameworks such as Cyber Essentials to put robust protections in place
How Lineal can help
At Lineal, our Security Team includes IASME-approved Cyber Advisors who work with organisations of all sizes to strengthen cyber resilience. From baseline protection like Cyber Essentials to more advanced solutions, we help ensure your technology — and the people who depend on it — remain safe from digital threats.
Cyber criminals are becoming more ruthless in their choice of targets. Make sure your organisation isn’t left vulnerable.
👉 Find out more about our cyber security services here: https://www.lineal.co.uk/cyber-security
Do you want a FREE Domain Password Breach Check? Get in touch or call our expert team on 01271 375999.