Key facts
- Hundreds of French supermarkets were hit by a cyberattack that disrupted refrigeration systems.
- The attack caused fridges and freezers to heat up, leading to spoilage of fresh and frozen food.
- Intermarché reported 150-200 stores affected, while Coopérative U reported nearly 100 stores targeted.
- Estimated total losses could run into millions of euros, with two stores reporting €270,000 in losses.
- The French government, including Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, is monitoring the situation.
- Paris prosecutors confirmed the cyberattack and launched an investigation.
Hundreds of French supermarkets have been hit by a cyberattack that caused their refrigeration systems to heat up, leading to significant food spoilage and financial losses estimated to be in the millions of euros. The attack, which reportedly began Sunday night, targeted the temperature regulation software of refrigeration units.
Major chains including Intermarché and Coopérative U confirmed widespread impact. Intermarché reported that between 150 and 200 of its stores were affected, with refrigerators heating up to 50°C for six hours, forcing the disposal of all affected food. Coopérative U stated nearly 100 of its outlets were targeted. Two supermarkets in the Alsace region reported combined losses of €270,000.
The French government is actively monitoring the situation, with Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu overseeing the response. The national cybersecurity agency ANSSI is investigating the incident, which prosecutors in Paris confirmed had also prompted fire outbreaks. Reports suggest the attackers may have exploited vulnerabilities in older versions of refrigeration control software from Danish manufacturer Danfoss. Other supermarket chains, including Carrefour, E.Leclerc, and Monoprix, were also reportedly targeted.