**Victoria's Secret Shuts Down Online Operations Due to Security Incident**

Online operations for popular retailer Victoria's Secret have come to a halt as of Thursday morning, following a security incident. The company's website posted a message acknowledging the issue and informing customers that some in-store services were also affected.

“Valued customer, we identified and are taking steps to address a security incident,” the website message stated. “We have taken down our website and some in-store services as a precaution. Our team is working around the clock to fully 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.”

The retailer's website has reportedly been down since Wednesday, leading to a noticeable dip in stock value. Shares fell from $21.97 to $20.99 by the end of the trading day.

This recent development comes shortly after major leadership changes at Victoria's Secret. In August 2024, Hillary Super was appointed CEO, taking over from Martin Waters, who had been with the company since 2021. Super previously served as the CEO of Rihanna's Savage X Fenty since June 2023. Her experience in appealing to younger consumers is seen as a potential asset for Victoria's Secret as it seeks to revamp its brand and increase market appeal.

Plans for a Victoria's Secret spinoff from its parent company, L Brands, were originally announced in 2021 after a proposed sale to private equity firm Sycamore Partners was derailed by the coronavirus pandemic. Since then, the company has faced slowing sales and has made efforts to refresh its fashions and redesign stores.

Victoria's Secret has yet to respond to requests for comment from NBC Chicago regarding the current situation. Meanwhile, loyal customers are directed to visit physical locations of Victoria's Secret and PINK stores for their shopping needs as the online services remain suspended.

As the investigation into the security incident continues, customers can stay updated by subscribing to NBC 5’s Chicago Catch-Up newsletter and by signing up for breaking news alerts.