Beer Store will only accept cash after cyber attack

There are 450 Beer Stores in the province.

"Overnight, we were subjected to a cyber attack and are following internal response protocols," a spokesperson told CBC. "Some of our locations are operating with cash only. We continue to implement physical distancing and are following all public health guidelines."

The attack comes at an awful time for Ontario and the rest of the world, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to leave people ill or isolated.

Cash is also a notorious spreader of germs.

According to a Toronto public health official, cash surfaces are "difficult to disinfect" and are something that are frequently used in transactions between customers and retailers.

“After handling cash and coins, it is important to wash hands with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Using a tap payment method with a debit or credit card is another option," said Dr. Vinita Dubey to the Toronto Sun.

Many restaurants across the country have announced that they are refusing cash transactions. This includes on Toronto Transit Commission buses.