CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India ePress / ITDC News /Agencies/ Bhopal: CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India Epress / ITDC News / Agencies:
Supermarkets across several European countries have been hit by a fresh cyberattack targeting refrigeration and freezer systems, forcing retailers to discard large quantities of food. The incident, reported on November 2, affected stores in Belgium, Sweden, Luxembourg, Ireland, Estonia, the Netherlands and Finland.
Major retail chains, including Carrefour, Delhaize, Colruyt, ICA, Coop and SuperValu, reported disruptions to their cooling systems. In some locations, hackers allegedly manipulated temperature settings remotely, with certain freezers reaching as high as 50 degrees Celsius. The sudden rise in temperature made several food products unsafe for consumption.
In Belgium, Carrefour reported that around 15 of its 700 stores were affected, while supermarket operator Colruyt confirmed problems at five shops. In Ireland, Musgrave, the owner of SuperValu, said refrigeration systems at 13 stores were affected, prompting the removal of chilled and frozen products. A Belgian butchery business estimated its losses at approximately 15,000 euros after its refrigeration units malfunctioned.
Cybersecurity Agencies Investigate
Authorities are investigating the incidents, but no individual or group has claimed responsibility so far. Belgium's federal prosecutor's office has opened an investigation. Cybersecurity experts believe that vulnerabilities in remotely managed refrigeration systems, outdated software and inadequate network protection may have provided attackers with an opportunity to interfere with the equipment.
The latest incidents follow a similar cyberattack in France in October, when refrigeration systems at hundreds of supermarkets were reportedly compromised, resulting in food losses.
The attacks have raised concerns about the security of Europe's food supply chain. Experts are urging retailers to strengthen network protection, update software and secure remotely controlled equipment to prevent further disruptions.
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