Cyber attacks are an increasing risk that equestrian businesses should be aware of. It’s important for equine businesses to understand their risks and take steps to help protect themselves, their staff, and clients.  

Below, we share more information about cyberattacks, including some of the most common types and practical measures equine businesses can take to reduce their exposure and strengthen their resilience. 

Recent history of cyber attacks and why equine businesses are at risk too

Cyber attacks are no longer limited to large corporations. In June 2025, Marks & Spencer was hit by a major ransomware attack that disrupted online orders, in‑store services, and led to customer data being stolen.

In September 2025, hackers targeted a nursery chain, stealing sensitive data including children’s photos and personal details, and demanding ransom payments. This incident demonstrated that attackers exploit vulnerabilities in unexpected industries, seeking profit wherever opportunities arise.  

The equestrian sector has also been affected. A ransomware attack on the British Horseracing Authority‘s (BHA) internal systems and data in June 2025 compromised internal systems and forced staff to work remotely, although racing events continued as planned. This shows that even specialist organisations within the equestrian industry are not immune to cyber threats, and smaller equine businesses face similar risks. 

Why cybercriminals may target equine businesses? 

Like many other industries, equestrian businesses face growing exposure to cyberattacks due to the increasing reliance on digital tools for daily operations and data management. 

Common technologies used in equine businesses that may present vulnerabilities include: 

• Online booking and scheduling systems 

• Horse care and stable management applications 

• Payment systems and card readers 

• Cloud‑based client databases 

• Online sales platforms for services or retail products such as tack or feed 

• Wi‑Fi‑enabled security systems, sensors, and tracking monitors 

While these tools provide efficiency and convenience, they can also create opportunities for cybercriminals if not properly secured. This makes it important for equine businesses to understand their digital risks and take steps to strengthen their resilience. 

Equine businesses are also vulnerable as hackers may target them due to the following: 

• Valuable data assets – equine businesses often hold sensitive customer information, including contact details for staff, volunteers, clients, contractors, and suppliers, as well as financial records, contracts, and horse-specific data (such as performance, breeding, and health information). These types of data can be attractive to cybercriminals, who may attempt to steal or misuse them, potentially causing disruption to business operations.
• Transactional systems – many equestrian businesses rely on digital platforms for bookings, payments, and daily operations (e.g., EC Pro or PDQ machines). If not properly secured, these systems may be targeted by attackers.
• Smaller businesses – cybercriminals sometimes focus on smaller organisations, recognising that they may have fewer resources or defences compared to larger companies with dedicated cybersecurity budgets.
• Awareness and training gaps – as a traditionally hands-on industry, equestrian business owners, employees, and volunteers may have limited exposure to technology and cybersecurity best practices. This can make them more vulnerable to sophisticated phishing emails or malicious attachments.
• High value financial transactions – equestrian businesses often handle substantial payments, such as horse sales, livery subscriptions, event entry fees, and farrier invoices. The size of these transactions can make them appealing targets for cybercriminals.

Common types of cyber attacks that equine businesses need to be aware of 

Below, we’ve shared some of the most common types of cyber attacks and those that cyber insurance can help you with, should an incident occur and you find yourself suffering financial loss and legal issues as a result. 

• Phishing attacks – fraudulent emails or messages may trick recipients into clicking malicious links or responding to fake invoices, potentially granting attackers access to business data or funds. Cybercriminals often pose as trusted contacts or businesses, such as horse transport companies, event organisers, payment processors, or insurance providers. Staying vigilant is key.
• Ransomware attacks – these attacks encrypt or lock business data until a ransom is paid. They can disrupt riding lesson schedules, impact contracts, financial records, horse health records, and staff or client information, potentially halting business activities until systems are restored.
• Business email compromise (BEC) – attackers gain access to a business email account to impersonate the user. This can lead to fraudulent instructions being sent to staff, fake payment requests to clients, or suppliers being tricked into changing bank details.
• Online booking and payment system hacks – businesses using online tools for bookings or payments (e.g., riding lessons, arena hire, retail sales) may be vulnerable if software is not updated, payment gateways are left unsecured, or weak passwords are used. Such breaches can expose sensitive customer data.
• Website hacking – cybercriminals may hijack and deface websites, redirect visitors to malicious sites, display offensive content, block bookings, or install malicious software.
• Mobile app and smart tech device hacking – equestrian businesses increasingly use smart tech such as fitness monitors, security controls, camera systems, and sensors. If not properly secured, these devices can be exploited to access wider networks.
• Data theft and privacy breaches – attackers may steal personal or commercial information, such as client or staff data, financial records, horse passports, veterinary and health records, or contracts. Such breaches can harm those affected and may result in reputational damage and legal liabilities for the business.

These points highlight the genuine risks that cyberattacks can pose to equestrian businesses in today’s connected world. To help reduce exposure, it is advisable to implement cybersecurity training and take practical steps such as maintaining up-to-date software, using strong passwords, enabling multifactor authentication, and investing in appropriate security systems. Considering cyber threats as part of your overall business risk management strategy is an important step.

To learn more about how cyber insurance may support equine businesses in managing the impact of cyber incidents, read our article on ‘how cyber insurance can protect your business’, or contact specialist equestrian insurance brokers at Ravenhall Rural for tailored guidance on managing cyber risks and insurance options.