The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word SCRAGS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
S
C
R
A
G
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Attacks" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case attacks = scrags.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SCRAGS mean?
SCRAGS noun- A thin or scrawny person or animal.
- The lean end of a neck of mutton; the scrag end.
- The neck, especially of a sheep.
- A scrog.
- A chav or ned; a stereotypically loud and aggressive person of lower social class.
- A rough or unkempt woman.
- A ragged, stunted tree or branch.