Cyberattack hits refrigeration systems

A cyberattack targeting refrigeration control systems made by the Danish company Danfoss has impacted several French retail chains, including Intermarché and Système U, on Monday, October 12. The attack involved hackers remotely changing temperature settings in refrigeration equipment, with some temperatures rising by as much as 50 degrees Celsius.

Temperature changes cause product losses

The altered temperatures led to the spoilage of fresh and frozen products in affected stores. Losses are estimated to reach several hundred thousand euros per store, depending on the scale of the damage and the number of products affected.

Intermarché suffers significant impact

Intermarché is among the most affected chains, with approximately 150 of its stores impacted. In the worst cases, refrigeration systems were reportedly deprogrammed, causing temperatures to rise and forcing the disposal of products that could no longer be sold.

Company confirms cyberattack

An internal communication from Intermarché dated October 12 confirmed a cyberattack occurred overnight. It stated that "several points of sale seem to be impacted by the loss of their frozen products" and noted that "our teams are mobilized and ready to prioritize your exceptional orders."

Système U also confirms attack

Système U has confirmed it is affected by the attack, which is ongoing and impacts "some stores of several chains." In the most severe cases, the attack has led to the disposal of all fresh products, prompting the establishment of crisis cells to address the issue with refrigeration system specialists.

Attack began over the weekend

The cyberattack began as early as Sunday night and has caused significant financial and operational challenges for the affected retail chains. The impact highlights the vulnerability of critical infrastructure systems to cyber threats.