Supermarket Freezers Hit by Cyber Attacks Across Europe

Supermarkets across Europe have faced a suspected cyber-attack targeting their fridges and freezers. The incident highlights growing concerns over the security of internet-connected hardware, ranging from industrial machines to home appliances. While smart devices offer remote convenience, experts warn that any device connected to the internet can potentially be exploited by malicious actors.

Official Warnings And UK Risk

Ciaran Martin, the former chief executive of the UK's National Cyber Security Centre, says manufacturers must do more to build safer products. He advises users to keep software updated and turn on multi-factor authentication. Since April 2024, UK law has forced makers of certain smart devices to meet minimum security rules for passwords and updates. Meanwhile, UK Cyber Defence researchers found over 800 refrigeration and building-control interfaces for British retailers open to the public internet, though being exposed does not automatically mean they can be hacked.

Industry Impact And Past Incidents

Helen Dickinson from the British Retail Consortium notes that cyber incidents are a major worry for retailers who are working with the NCSC to share information and build stronger defences. Government officials have already met with senior food retailers about cyber resilience following earlier attacks. In May 2025, UK supermarkets M&S and Co-op faced ransomware attacks that left shelves empty of fresh food. SentinelOne researcher Tom Hegel warns that attackers can turn normal functions like defrosting into tools for disruption, destroying physical stock rather than just breaking computer systems.

Context

Internet-connected industrial machinery, power plants, and water networks all rely on remote digital management systems. Security experts point out that while major companies and utilities have improved their defenses over the years, smaller or poorly funded operations often continue to use older and more vulnerable equipment.