EU to assess impact of cyber attacks on supermarkets on food supply chain

Christophe Hansen, Member of the European Union (EU) Commission Responsible for Agriculture, made a written statement to the AA correspondent regarding the cyber attacks affecting markets in European countries.

Stating that he takes the news about information system incidents affecting retailers very seriously, Hansen said, "It is extremely worrying that these cyber attacks occur again and again." he said.

"Cyber ​​attacks are deliberate attempts to disrupt our food supply chain and undermine consumer confidence in it. This is a warning we must take seriously," Hansen said. made his assessment.

Pointing out the effects of the attacks on businesses and food waste, Hansen stated that food safety is not currently at risk, but the impact on food waste and businesses is real.

Hansen emphasized that food supply security is not limited to producing sufficient quantities, but also ensures the resilience of the supply chain in the face of new and changing threats.

Stating that the relevant units of the EU Commission met with retailers affected by cyber attacks in October and evaluated the situation within the scope of emergency studies on preparedness and food supply security, Hansen stated that he will continue to monitor the developments closely.

Hansen pointed out that he aims to obtain a comprehensive evaluation of the preparedness plans created by retailers to respond to such events, and said, "I will raise the issue with other Commission members at our next meeting." he said.

Emphasizing that a coordinated approach is required throughout the food supply chain, from wholesalers to logistics businesses and retailers, to increase resilience, Hansen said, "We must ensure that every link of this chain is prepared to withstand and respond to cyber threats." made his assessment.

There were disruptions in the cooling and freezing systems of markets on November 2 in European countries including Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden, Ireland, the Netherlands, Finland and Estonia. Foods whose cold chain was disrupted or at risk of spoilage were withdrawn from sale due to incidents that some businesses confirmed as cyber attacks.

In France, on October 12, similar attacks caused food losses by remotely intervening in the cooling systems of markets. While it has not yet been determined whether there is a connection between the attacks, no one has claimed responsibility for the incidents.