Cyberattack Forces Defrosting of Refrigerators in Over 200 French Supermarkets

A cyberattack targeting major French supermarket chains caused refrigerators to defrost in more than 200 stores, according to statements made to AFP on Monday. Between 150 and 200 Intermarché shops were affected, alongside nearly 100 Coopérative U outlets, the two retailers confirmed. The attack reportedly extended to other major chains as well. Paris prosecutors verified the incident and noted that it also triggered outbreaks of fire at the affected locations. The defrosting of refrigeration units represents an unusual operational consequence of the cyber intrusion, which disrupted cold-chain infrastructure across a significant portion of France's grocery retail network. The involvement of Paris prosecutors signals that authorities are treating the matter as a serious criminal case. Neither retailer disclosed the specific nature of the attack vector, nor whether any customer data was compromised. The incident adds to a growing pattern of cyber threats targeting critical retail infrastructure in Europe. Further details on the total scope of damage and the identity of the attackers have not been released.