FBI warns of cyber threats as Spain raises hybrid war fears

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a global cybersecurity warning, detailing threats to essential services across Europe. The agency cited bomb alerts that led to flight diversions, television staff evacuations, and business warnings that hackers could interfere with equipment protecting food and medical supplies.

The FBI highlighted vulnerabilities in outdated equipment, exposed internet connections, and unchanged factory passwords that could allow attackers to remotely manipulate temperatures. This could potentially destroy valuable stock and disrupt vital services.

Spain’s Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares, suggested the wave of disruption could be part of a larger campaign of hybrid aggression and psychological warfare. The FBI’s warning, issued on November 5, advises businesses to strengthen security around industrial refrigeration and temperature monitoring systems to prevent remote manipulation of temperatures. The agency urged organizations to restrict remote access, update vulnerable equipment, and ensure temperature alarms can alert staff before damage occurs.

Meanwhile, European authorities are investigating a separate wave of bomb threats that disrupted passenger flights and targeted television stations. RTÉ in Ireland, Sky in Britain, and Nova TV in Bulgaria received threats, leading to evacuations and security investigations. While no explosives were found, officials are exploring whether the incidents share a common origin. Spain’s Foreign Minister noted that the bomb threats may be part of a deliberate strategy to spread fear and disrupt daily life.

The FBI’s warning underscores that protecting essential infrastructure is a shared responsibility, not just for governments and large corporations, but also for the everyday businesses and services that millions rely on.