Brussels:A series of cyberattacks have recently targeted major European grocery chains, causing significant disruptions to their refrigeration systems. These attacks have manipulated temperatures and defrost settings, leading to potential food spoilage across several countries.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the latest wave of attacks occurred early Monday, impacting stores in Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden, Ireland, Estonia, the Netherlands, and Finland. This followed a similar incident three weeks prior that affected hundreds of supermarkets in France. Authorities have yet to identify those responsible for the attacks or establish a motive, and no group has claimed responsibility.

The European Commission is now investigating the supermarkets' preparedness for such cyberattacks. This includes examining whether retailers have adequate backup systems and contingency plans, as stated by EU Agriculture and Food Commissioner Christophe Hansen. The issue is also expected to be discussed by the Commission's Security College.

The attacks have exposed vulnerabilities in internet-connected controllers used to regulate temperatures in supermarket refrigeration systems. These controllers, often managed remotely by contractors, have been exploited by hackers. In France, systems from Danish manufacturer Danfoss and US-based Copeland were identified as compromised. Many of the affected controllers were older models lacking software or security updates.

Authorities across Europe, including Belgium's federal prosecutor's office and Sweden's National Cybersecurity Center, have launched investigations. They are sharing information with Nordic and European partners to understand the scope and origin of these cyber threats.