Supermarkets across several European countries have reported disruptions to their refrigeration and freezer systems following suspected cyber-attacks. The incidents have raised concerns about the security of digitally connected equipment used in the food retail industry.
According to media reports, supermarkets in Sweden, Belgium, Luxembourg and Estonia experienced problems with their cooling systems. In some locations, refrigerator and freezer temperatures were reportedly changed remotely, causing food to spoil.
In Sweden, supermarket chains ICA and Coop reported incidents affecting several stores. One ICA outlet in Sjöbo reported that its refrigeration units had been set to 50°C. Coop also confirmed problems at six of its stores.
In Belgium and Luxembourg, supermarket retailer Ahold Delhaize reported refrigeration problems at several dozen stores. Carrefour Belgium also confirmed a limited impact on 15 of its more than 700 outlets. In Estonia, a refrigeration control system was reportedly accessed without authorisation, resulting in a similar temperature increase.
As a precaution, some supermarkets removed fresh meat, dairy products and frozen food from sale due to concerns about food safety. The incidents follow a similar cyber-attack in France last month, which affected hundreds of supermarkets and resulted in substantial food losses.
Authorities and affected companies are investigating the incidents. However, the identity of the attackers and whether all the incidents are connected remain unclear.
