Hackers target supermarket refrigeration systems across Europe: how cyberattacks expose vulnerabilities to hybrid threats – ArmyInform

Hackers target supermarket refrigeration systems across Europe: how cyberattacks expose vulnerabilities to hybrid threats  ArmyInform

Cyberattacks on fridges at supermarkets in eight European countries spoiled food en masse, showing digital strikes can do economic harm without a shot fired. According to Reuters, hackers interfered with supermarket refrigeration systems on November 2, in the second wave of similar attacks in just three weeks. The previous incident affected dozens of stores in France. By manipulating temperature controls, attackers disrupted food storage operations and caused significant losses of refrigerated and frozen products. In Sweden, at least 30 stores operated by Coop and ICA were affected. Seven Coop supermarkets have since resumed operations, but their refrigeration equipment has been disconnected from the internet. The company is accelerating upgrades to modern modems and 5G connectivity.

Similar attacks affected an Edeka supermarket in Germany and 15 Carrefour stores in Belgium. Three weeks earlier, 80 Carrefour franchise stores in France had experienced the same type of attack. The attack exploited a straightforward vulnerability: refrigeration control systems accessible through the internet. Hackers were able to interfere with equipment settings remotely, raising temperatures beyond safe storage levels. Systems supplied by Danish manufacturer Danfoss were among those targeted. The company has advised customers against exposing refrigeration controllers directly to the public internet. Cybersecurity specialists recommend isolating vulnerable devices, installing security updates and reviewing how industrial equipment connects to external networks. Europe’s decentralized retail infrastructure makes