The Big Issue

The Big Issue is a UK social enterprise that supports homeless individuals through the sale of a street magazine. Its core product is the magazine, which is sold by vendors who are often homeless or vulnerably housed. The organisation provides vendor support services to help sellers manage their businesses and personal challenges. It also offers social impact lending programmes aimed at improving financial stability for people in poverty. Frontline assistance, including advice and referral services, is delivered to those facing homelessness and related hardships. By combining income generation with social support, The Big Issue seeks to foster social inclusion and reduce exclusion. The enterprise operates across the United Kingdom, with its headquarters located in the UK. Its model is recognised for integrating commercial activity with a clear social mission. The organisation’s activities are directed at both the vendors who sell the magazine and the broader public that purchases it. This approach enables the organisation to address immediate needs while working toward longer‑term empowerment.

In February 2024, The Big Issue experienced a ransomware attack carried out by the Qilin gang. The attackers claimed to have exfiltrated approximately 550 gigabytes of confidential commercial and personnel data. In response, the organisation restricted access to its systems and engaged external cybersecurity specialists. Restoration efforts were initiated while maintaining limited operational disruption. Importantly, magazine distribution continued without interruption during the incident. Some of the stolen data was later published on the dark web. The Big Issue collaborated with the National Cyber Security Centre, the National Crime Agency, and the Metropolitan Police to investigate the breach. Regulatory notifications were made as required by data protection legislation. Despite the attack, the organisation persisted in delivering vendor support services, social impact lending, and frontline assistance. This response demonstrated the organisation’s resilience and commitment to its social mission amid cyber threats.