France blames Iran for freezer hacks across Europe

France formally blames Iran for freezer hacks

The French government has formally blamed Iran for cyberattacks targeting thousands of internet-connected industrial refrigerated and freezer units across France and broader Europe.

Hackers remotely broke into freezer controllers

Two waves of cyberattacks in October and November saw hackers remotely break into web-based controllers managing industrial cold units at grocery stores and supermarkets, raising temperatures to spoil food.

Blood banks also targeted but attacks stopped

Medical blood banks were also hacked in the attacks, but the French Blood Establishment said the attacks were stopped before any blood was spoiled.

Danfoss freezers vulnerable to remote hacks

Security researchers warned that web-based controllers are vulnerable to remote hacks, with some affected models made by Danish company Danfoss no longer receiving security fixes.

France calls it unprecedented sabotage

French foreign minister Jean-Noël Barrot said the attacks represent the first large-scale act of sabotage on French national territory and constitute a major assault on the nation's interests.

“This was an attack of unprecedented scale and aggression; it represents the first large-scale act of sabotage on our national territory and constitutes a major assault on the nation's interests and the security of the French people.”

France summons Iran's ambassador and plans sanctions

The French government has summoned Iran's ambassador and said it would issue European-wide sanctions against those who carried out the hacks. The matter is now in the hands of the French justice system.