Why did Victoria’s Secret shut down its website? Reasons explained 

Victoria’s Secret shut down its US website on May 28, 2025, after what it described as a “security incident.” The lingerie company, in a notice posted on its site, didn’t elaborate on what the security incident might be, but news outlets are speculating that hackers might be involved.

Victoria’s Secret has also halted some in-store operations in the US following the incident, but its physical stores, including those of its sub-brand PINK, are fully functional. The notice on their website stated that the company is taking steps to address the “security incident”:

"Valued customers, we identified and are taking steps to address a security incident. We have taken down our website and some in-store services as a precaution."

The lingerie brand assured customers that all hands are on deck to ensure a return to normal operations.

“Our team is working around the clock to restore operations. We appreciate your patience during this process. In the meantime, our Victoria’s Secret and PINK stores remain open, and we look forward to serving you."

Reports state that Victoria’s Secret’s shares fell on the day the website became inactive

According to the BBC, shares of the multinational company fell by 7% on the day a media statement about the security incident was released. The Ohio-based company operates more than 1,350 stores in 70 countries.

Bloomberg reported that Victoria’s Secret instructed employees to avoid using the company’s technology amid the security breach. The new outlet further claimed, per an insider’s report, that some employees were locked out of email accounts, and passwords weren’t working.

The lingerie retailer has reportedly contacted experts to address the issue. Hillary Super, the company's Chief Executive Officer, revealed in a company memorandum that recovery might take a while. Customer care and distribution centre operations are currently halted in the United States.

The security incident came after the investment company BBRC International Pte Limited increased its stake in the VS company. Starting in March 2025, BBRC, run by Australian billionaire Brett Blundy, began growing its position in VS&Co to around 13% of its outstanding shares.

This move by BBRC was countered by a “Poison Pill” or limited-duration shareholders' rights plan by the lingerie company. According to Donna James, Chairman of the board of directors for VS&Co, the “Poison Pill” prevents anyone from taking over the company without paying all the shareholders a fair premium:

“In light of the circumstances and consistent with its fiduciary duties, the Board determined it was necessary to adopt a rights plan to protect the long-term interests of all Victoria’s Secret shareholders and guard against tactics to gain control of the Company without paying all shareholders an appropriate premium for that control."

For more information and updates on the “security issue,” customers are advised to visit the company’s corporate website, www.victoriassecretandco.com.

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