Supermarkets across six European countries have reported cyberattacks targeting refrigeration systems, causing temperature increases and food spoilage at several stores.
The incidents were reported in Sweden, the Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland, Luxembourg and Estonia on Monday.
The attacks follow a similar incident in France last month, when hackers reportedly gained control of cooling units at hundreds of supermarkets, pushing temperatures up to 122 degrees Fahrenheit and causing fires and food losses.
In the Netherlands, supermarket chain Ahold Delhaize confirmed an IT incident affecting refrigeration systems at several outlets. In Belgium, five Spar stores operated by Colruyt Group were affected, while Carrefour reported limited disruption across 15 stores.
In Sweden, grocery retailer Coop reported incidents at six outlets, while ICA said some stores using an external service provider were affected. Ireland’s food wholesaler Musgrave also confirmed that refrigeration systems at 13 SuperValu stores had been targeted, forcing the removal of certain chilled and frozen products.
Authorities have not identified those responsible for the attacks. Sweden’s National Cybersecurity Centre is investigating multiple incidents and has highlighted concerns over outdated and exposed operational technology systems.
