UK meat suppliers hit by fridge cyber attacks

A number of UK meat suppliers reported that their refrigeration units experienced temperature fluctuations overnight due to cyber attacks targeting software used by businesses across Europe. The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (Aims) confirmed that a few of its approximately 300 members were affected by the incident, describing them as having unexpectedly become collateral damage.

Some members of Aims observed their fridge systems beginning to defrost on Monday night. In one instance, a unit's temperature reportedly rose significantly. However, due to the operational practices of abattoirs, the affected units were empty at the time of the incidents, meaning no food produce was lost.

Industry response and official assessment

A spokesperson for Aims stated that while no affected businesses lost meat, the events serve as a reminder for the food industry to remain vigilant about potential cyber threats. The organisation urged its members and the wider industry to be watchful.

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) confirmed it is working with the affected firms and monitoring the situation. Paul Chichester, director of operations at the NCSC, described the national impact as minimal. He added that the centre is actively identifying and addressing existing vulnerabilities within UK organisations to prevent future exploitation.

It is understood that no major supermarket chains in the UK were directly impacted by the cyber attack. However, retailers are being advised to monitor their systems closely for potential risks and ensure their software is up to date. Contingency plans for relocating food produce, if necessary, are also being recommended.

Graham Wynn, assistant director of regulatory affairs at the British Retail Consortium, indicated that retailers invest significantly in cybersecurity and are collaborating with the NCSC to secure their refrigeration systems. Rupert Ashby, chief executive of the British Frozen Food Federation, also noted that members are reviewing their freezer provisions and assessing system vulnerabilities.

Dr Richard Horne, head of the NCSC, mentioned that teams had been working through the night to alert British firms identified as having vulnerable technology exposed. He confirmed that a small number of UK organisations had been alerted and that a couple of impacts were known. Dr Horne also reinforced the importance of stockpiling, noting that criminal attacks have previously affected UK retailers and that similar incidents have occurred across Europe.