We have heard how data worth crores can get stolen online through cyberattacks. But have you ever thought that a cyberattack could affect food too? Yes, several supermarkets in France were hit by a cyberattack that damaged large quantities of food. Scroll down to learn how it happened!
Which Supermarkets In France Are Hit By Cyberattack?
The cyberattack in France has affected several supermarkets. Among the affected supermarkets are:
- Intermarché
- Netto
- Coopérative U
- Carrefour
- Monoprix
- E.Leclerc
How Did Hackers Damage Food In France?
The hackers gained control of the software used to manage refrigeration units remotely. They then forced the fridges and freezers, which are used to keep food cold, to heat up. Some refrigeration units reportedly reached temperatures of up to 50°C. The targeted software was provided by Danish engineering company Danfoss.
How Did Hackers Target Refrigeration Units?
According to the software company, the affected refrigeration units were older models that could not receive security software updates. This made them more vulnerable to cyberattacks.
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How Many Stores Are Affected?
According to a BBC report, around 400 stores were affected out of approximately 15,000 supermarkets across France. The attack affected 100 Coopérative U supermarkets and 180 Intermarché and Netto stores. Another 100 stores were disconnected from the internet as a precaution to protect them from the attack.
Moreover, 80 out of 6,000 Carrefour stores and around 5% of Monoprix’s more than 400 stores were affected. Monoprix also removed food from sale if staff were unsure whether it was still safe to eat. The total financial losses across all affected supermarkets have not yet been confirmed. But Intermarché CEO Thierry Cotillard said the cyber attack could cause losses worth millions of euros in just one day.
Could Indian Supermarkets Face A Similar CyberAttack?
Yes, India’s supermarkets also rely on refrigeration systems to keep food fresh. If hackers gain control of these systems, they could spoil food and cause huge financial losses.
We hope situations gets under control soon!
Also Read: Ameil Guerin Becomes Indias 2nd Chef To Win France’s Prestigious Agricultural Honour
Cover Image Courtesy: X/@doma_s_soba4koj
FAQs
What is the capital of France?
The capital of France is Paris.
What is the approximate budget for France trip?
If you're planning 7-day France trip it can cost you around ₹1.15 lakh to ₹1.8 lakh per person.
What are the famous places in France?
Famous places to visit in France are the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Palace of Versailles, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.
What is the cost of France tourist visa for Indians?
A France tourist visa for Indian adults costs around €90 (approximately ₹9,500), excluding additional visa application centre service fees.
What is the best time to visit France?
The best time to visit France is from April to May and September to October.
