Hackers overheat fridges at hundreds of French supermarkets
Hackers remotely raised the temperatures in refrigeration units at up to 700 French supermarkets, spoiling large quantities of food and causing fires and water damage in some stores. The attack has prompted a criminal investigation and renewed concern about the security of internet-connected equipment.
The units were reportedly heated from around -27C to above 50C over four to six hours, with one store reporting temperatures of 80C. Investigators say outdated software, weak security and disabled alarms may have helped the attackers; no one has claimed responsibility. Experts have suggested possibilities ranging from young hackers or activists to state-linked sabotage, while Intermarché’s chief said losses could reach tens of millions of euros.
- Up to 700 French supermarkets were hit.
- Freezers were remotely heated, spoiling food.
- The hackers’ identity and motive remain unknown.
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Supermarkets rely on refrigeration units to keep frozen and chilled food at safe temperatures. Many modern units connect to the internet so they can be monitored and controlled remotely, but that also means they need secure software, passwords and alarms.
Intermarché is one of France’s large supermarket groups, and the affected stores are part of a wider retail network. Investigators are examining how the units were accessed and who was responsible; no group has publicly claimed the attack.
The case raises questions about how well businesses protect connected equipment that can affect food, buildings and public safety. The financial losses may also be substantial, with spoiled stock and damage to stores.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “Not cool: who hacked France’s supermarket fridges?”.