Cyber Attacks Overheat Freezers in Sweden and Belgium, Causing Millions in Food Losses
Dozens of supermarkets in Belgium and Sweden suffered suspected cyber-attacks impacting their refrigeration systems, leading to significant financial losses.
A series of suspected cyber-attacks has caused widespread disruption to supermarket refrigeration systems in Belgium and Sweden, resulting in millions of euros worth of food spoilage. According to reports, dozens of stores in both countries experienced issues with their freezer temperatures, which reportedly soared to as high as 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) 1.
The impact on Belgian supermarkets was particularly notable, with one Delhaize branch in Hoeilaart losing an estimated €100,000 worth of produce 1. Additionally, Spar, Shop & Go, and Proxy Delhaize stores were all affected in Belgium 2. This incident follows a similar attack in France in October, where up to 700 supermarkets faced significant food losses due to compromised refrigeration systems 23.
In Sweden, the situation was less extensive but still impactful, with six Coop stores reportedly affected 23. However, there is some discrepancy regarding the exact number of Swedish stores impacted, with one report suggesting seven out of 800 Coop stores were affected, though this figure is disputed 1.
The estimated total loss from these attacks is in the millions of euros, highlighting the substantial economic impact on the retail sector 1. The Paris prosecutor's office has already initiated an investigation into the French attack, indicating the seriousness of the situation and the potential for legal action 2.
What we know
- Dozens of supermarkets in Belgium and Sweden experienced a suspected cyber-attack affecting their refrigeration systems 123
- Temperatures in some freezers were set to 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) 1
- One Delhaize branch in Hoeilaart lost approximately €100,000 worth of produce 1
- Spar, Shop & Go, and Proxy Delhaize stores were affected in Belgium 2
- Six Coop stores in Sweden were affected 23
What remains unclear
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Verification report
- confirmed
Dozens of supermarkets in Belgium and Sweden experienced a suspected cyber-attack affecting their refrigeration systems.
94% · supported by 3 - confirmed
In October, a cyber-attack affected up to 700 supermarkets in France, causing significant food losses.
86% · supported by 2 - likely
The estimated loss due to the attack is millions of euros worth of food.
73% · supported by 1 - likely
Temperatures in some freezers were set to 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit).
73% · supported by 1 - likely
A Delhaize branch in Hoeilaart lost approximately €100,000 worth of produce.
73% · supported by 1 - likely
Spar, Shop & Go, and Proxy Delhaize stores were affected in Belgium.
72% · supported by 1 - likely
Paris prosecutor's office initiated an investigation into the French attack.
72% · supported by 1 - likely
Six Coop stores in Sweden were affected.
70% · supported by 2, contradicted by 1 - unverified
Approximately 40 Delhaize supermarkets in Belgium and Luxembourg were impacted.
51% · supported by 1, contradicted by 1 - disputed
Seven out of 800 Coop stores in Sweden were affected, but the situation is contained.
30% · supported by 1, contradicted by 2
