Cyber-attack hits supermarket freezers in seven European countries
Sabcobel CEO says units were switched to defrost mode, causing temperatures to rise as several retailers report food losses.
Dozens of supermarkets in seven European nations have been targeted by a cyber-attack that disrupted refrigeration and freezing systems, according to BBC News. The affected countries include Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden, Ireland, the Netherlands, Estonia, and Finland.
Stephan Moelans, CEO of Sabcobel, told the Belga news agency that the incident involved units being switched to defrost mode. Sabcobel operates systems for Delhaize, which saw approximately 40 supermarkets in Belgium and Luxembourg impacted. In Sweden, an ICA branch in Sjöbo reported that temperatures in its freezers rose to 50C.
The attack has caused significant financial damage. A Delhaize branch in Hoeilaart, Belgium, reported losing €100,000 worth of produce. In the Netherlands, a spokesperson for manufacturer Danfoss stated that at least 17 companies, including butcher shops and small stores, were attacked overnight.
Other retailers have confirmed the impact. Carrefour said 15 of its Belgian stores were affected, while five Spar stores in Belgium were hit, according to a Colruyt Group spokesperson. In Sweden, seven Coop stores were affected, and Ikea reported issues at its Mons store in Belgium.
National cyber-security agencies in Belgium and Sweden are monitoring the situation. The UK's National Cyber Security Centre said it is working with international partners to understand the details, though no incidents have been reported in the UK.
Moelans stated that while the company has been working to disconnect affected units, some units require physical modifications rather than just software updates to prevent future vulnerabilities.