Cyberattack Disrupts Supermarket Freezers Across Belgium and Sweden

Supermarkets in Belgium and Sweden are investigating suspected cyberattacks after refrigeration systems malfunctioned overnight, raising temperatures, spoiling food and disrupting operations at several stores across both countries today.

Webdesk Zunaira Fatima

Supermarkets in Belgium and Sweden are investigating suspected cyberattacks after refrigeration and freezer systems were disrupted overnight, causing temperatures to rise and putting food supplies at risk. The incidents affected several retail chains, with some stores reporting spoiled products and temporary operational difficulties.

In Belgium, dozens of supermarkets were affected. Belgian media reports said around 40 Delhaize stores, 15 Carrefour outlets and five Spar locations experienced problems with their cooling systems. Butchery group De Laet en Van Haver also reported that its refrigeration equipment had been affected. A Delhaize spokesperson confirmed an IT incident involving refrigeration systems in several dozen stores and said immediate measures were taken to keep shops operating.

Reports indicated that the attack took place between Sunday night and Monday morning. In some Belgian stores, refrigerator temperatures reportedly climbed as high as 70 degrees Celsius. The disruption led to food losses, with estimates from Belgian media putting discarded products at around €100,000. The exact scale of the damage is still being assessed.

Sweden also reported problems at supermarket refrigeration units. Several ICA stores experienced overnight disruptions, while six Coop stores were reportedly affected. Swedish media said the incidents were reported in several regions, including Skane, Oland, Varmland and Stockholm. At one ICA store on Oland, a manager reportedly found water on the floor and a freezer showing 55 degrees Celsius. Another store manager said staff had to empty freezers because the products had been spoiled.

ICA said it was aware that a limited number of stores had been affected by an overnight incident involving refrigeration and freezer systems. The company said it was investigating the disruption and supporting the affected branches. At least one Swedish store publicly blamed a cyberattack, although the full cause and scope of the incidents remain under investigation.

The incidents follow a similar cyberattack in France in October, when hundreds of supermarkets reportedly experienced problems after hackers manipulated refrigeration systems, causing units to heat up and food to be discarded. The latest events have raised concerns about the security of internet-connected equipment used to control essential supermarket operations.

Retailers and technical specialists are assessing the affected systems. Authorities and companies have not established whether the incidents in Belgium and Sweden are linked to the earlier attack in France. Investigations are continuing, and further details are expected as businesses determine the extent of the disruption.