London Drugs Investigates Potential Customer Data Breach

London Drugs, a major Canadian retail store chain, has initiated an investigation into a significant cybersecurity incident discovered on April 28, 2024. This breach has prompted the temporary closure of all its locations in Western Canada, though it continues to offer urgent pharmacy services to its customers.

Founded in 1945, London Drugs started as a small drugstore in Vancouver, British Columbia, and has since grown into a major player in the Canadian retail market, especially in Western Canada. With over 80 stores, they not only serve as a pharmacy but also offer a wide range of electronics, groceries, and home products, making them a critical resource for many communities.

On Saturday, April 28, London Drugs reported a cybersecurity event that led to the precautionary shutdown of its operations. This was first indicated in a series of updates via their Twitter account and a detailed statement on their official website.

April 30:
On April 28, 2024, London Drugs discovered that it was the victim of a cybersecurity incident. Out of an abundance of caution, all London Drugs stores will remain temporarily closed across Western Canada until further notice while continuing to provide customers with…

— London Drugs (@LondonDrugs) April 30, 2024

The retailer is actively collaborating with top cybersecurity experts to safely restore full operations. The ongoing investigation aims to ascertain the extent of potential data compromises, with a commitment to notify any affected individuals in line with privacy regulations.

“London Drugs is currently working with leading third-party cybersecurity experts to bring our operations back online in a safe and secure manner. 

Our investigation is currently assessing the extent to which any data has been compromised in the incident. In the event our investigation determines that personal information was impacted, we will notify affected individuals in accordance with privacy laws.”

London Drugs

Clint Mahlman, COO and President of London Drugs, expressed the company's commitment to resuming full operations swiftly, acknowledging the disruption's impact on both customers and employees. As part of the immediate response, London Drugs has also temporarily disabled its phone lines, directing customers to visit their local stores for any urgent needs.

For consumers affected by the temporary store closures or concerned about their personal data, it is advisable to monitor any communications from London Drugs closely and be on the lookout for potential scams using the incident as a lure. Additionally, customers should consider monitoring their account statements and credit reports for any unusual activity.

London Drugs has assured that it will keep the public informed as the situation evolves, with updates likely to provide more specific advice on protective measures depending on the investigation's findings.