At least 11 European countries snared in freezer cyberattacks

Eleven European countries have been targeted by cyberattacks on supermarket refrigeration systems, according to EU food and agriculture commissioner Christophe Hansen. Germany, Romania, and the UK are among the nations affected, joining Italy which held emergency talks with intelligence chiefs after the incident. The motive behind the attacks is unknown, and no one has claimed responsibility yet.

EU spokesman Thomas Regnier confirmed that the attacks were deliberate attempts to disrupt the food supply chain, emphasizing the need for collective resilience and preparedness against such incidents. The British Association of Independent Meat Suppliers reported that two of its members experienced defrosting fridges and increased cold unit temperatures.

Italy's government stated that the impact was highly limited, affecting only a small number of commercial units with outdated security systems. In Germany, four outlets were impacted, while six were affected in Romania. No other infrastructure was compromised in these incidents, and authorities are investigating the matter.