Could hackers get inside my fridge?

Refrigerators and freezers at supermarkets across Europe suffered a cyberattack on Monday, causing their temperatures to rise. This incident mirrored a similar attack in France last month, which also resulted in fires and spoiled food due to overheated refrigeration units. In August, military bases in the United States experienced a series of suspected hacks that caused food spoilage in freezers. As more and more devices become internet-connected, the potential for cyberattacks expands.

In theory, any device connected to the internet can be hacked. Smart home appliances such as security cameras, doorbells, alarm systems, thermostats, and even refrigerators, ovens, and washing machines can be vulnerable if connected to the wider internet. Even some toothbrushes have become internet-connected.

Hackers who gain access to a device can either steal data, disrupt services, or use the device as a gateway into a larger network. Once inside a device, hackers can typically gather information or take control of it. They can manipulate cameras and microphones to spy on homes, alter settings on devices, or disrupt heating systems. In serious cases, hackers may use compromised devices to access other systems on the same network or steal personal information from online accounts.

Connected vehicles have also been shown to be vulnerable to hacking. Researchers have remotely taken control of moving cars through their internet-connected systems, even unlocking and starting certain cars using only a license plate number. While critical infrastructure like power and water networks generally have stronger security measures, they are still not immune to cyberattacks.

To protect their devices, experts recommend changing default passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, installing software updates regularly, and removing or replacing devices that no longer receive security updates. Keeping most devices on a local network and only connecting products to the wider internet when necessary can also help reduce potential entry points for attackers. The fewer connected devices you have, the fewer potential vulnerabilities exist for hackers to exploit.