Hackers can hijack grocery store freezers. What about our homes?
Summary
Cyberattacks on grocery store refrigeration systems in Europe spoiled food, while a separate breach of France’s emergency blood supply network was contained by alerts and backup systems. Cybersecurity experts say internet-connected household appliances can also be vulnerable, potentially letting hackers control devices, spy on residents, or reach other devices on a home network.Key Facts
- European grocery refrigeration systems were attacked on Monday, raising temperatures and causing food losses.
- A similar attack targeted hundreds of French stores in October, with some refrigeration units reaching 122°F.
- Hackers compromised France’s national emergency blood supply network, but alert and backup systems kept cold storage operating and no supplies were lost.
- Experts said weak or reused passwords, outdated software, and poorly secured accounts can leave smart appliances exposed.
- Experts warned that a flaw in one popular device model could affect many households.
- A hacked device could let attackers perform actions it is designed to carry out, such as changing heating settings, disabling cameras, or unlocking doors.
- Unauthorized access to cameras or microphones could reveal when people are home and what they are doing.
- U.S. cybersecurity officials identified a serious flaw in certain Wi-Fi thermostats in 2025, and the FTC documented cases of hackers using Ring cameras to spy on and harass homeowners.
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