Hackers remotely hijack refrigeration systems in hundreds of French supermarkets
Cyber attackers took control of the cooling units in more than 500 French grocery stores, causing temperatures to rise and spoiling fresh and frozen goods.
In an overnight breach, cyber criminals seized remote control of refrigeration systems in more than 500 French supermarkets, causing temperatures to spike and resulting in the loss of fresh and frozen product lines. The attack also threatened the integrity of the cooling equipment itself. Dominique Schelcher, chief executive of Coopérative U, said the incident could generate substantial monetary damage for large stores.
A cybersecurity expert offered two possible motives: a state actor seeking to create disorder, or attackers acting for reputation or amusement. While the perpetrators remain unidentified, the episode underscores how connected devices, from fridges to solar panels and wind turbines, can be exposed to cyber threats. Authorities and retailers are now urged to reassess the security of internet-enabled infrastructure.
Why it matters
It shows how everyday retail equipment can be weaponized, threatening food safety and causing costly disruptions.
How this story developed
- Oct 12 Cyberattack disrupts refrigeration systems at Intermarché and Coopérative U stores
- Oct 12 The attack specifically exploits outdated Danfoss software versions older than version 4.
- Oct 14 Additional reports note that stores of Monoprix, Leclerc and Carrefour also experienced temperature overrides.
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