A cyberattack targeting supermarket refrigeration systems in France has spoiled food at hundreds of stores, exposing security weaknesses in equipment connected to the internet. Investigators are searching for those responsible, but no group has publicly claimed the attack.
The incident affected major retailers, including Intermarché, Carrefour, Monoprix and Coopérative U. Reuters reported on October 13 that at least 350 supermarkets had been affected. Stores discarded fresh and frozen products after attackers manipulated refrigeration controls and raised temperatures.
How the Attack Disrupted Food Supplies
The attack targeted refrigeration management systems made by Danish manufacturer Danfoss. These systems help stores monitor and control refrigerators, freezers and cold-storage areas.
Some affected units were running outdated software or had reached the end of their supported lifespan. Danfoss said it had advised customers to update supported systems and replace older equipment that no longer receives security updates.
Cybersecurity researchers had previously identified vulnerabilities in certain Danfoss controllers. In August, security firm Claroty reported flaws that could allow attackers to bypass authentication and execute code on compromised devices. Researchers said the precise method used in the French attack had not been publicly established.
The damage extended beyond wasted food. Some refrigeration equipment overheated, while reports described fire alarms being triggered at affected locations.
Investigators Have Yet to Identify the Attackers
The Paris prosecutor’s office opened an investigation into the incident. As of October 13, authorities had not publicly identified the perpetrators, and investigators had reported no public ransom demand or claim of responsibility.
The absence of a known motive has left key questions unanswered. Investigators have not established whether the attack was intended to cause disruption, demonstrate security weaknesses or pursue another objective.
The incident highlights the risks facing businesses that rely on internet-connected industrial equipment. Systems designed to preserve food can become vulnerable when software goes unpatched or remote access is inadequately secured.
For retailers, the immediate priorities are restoring safe refrigeration, replacing discarded stock and preventing further intrusions. The investigation will need to establish how the attackers gained access and whether other connected systems remain exposed.
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