Cyber attacks affect UK meat processing industry, officials say

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 3 Nov, 17:16 · Archive

Cyber attacks targeting software used by supermarkets and food suppliers across Europe have affected some UK meat suppliers. A number of UK meat suppliers experienced problems with their refrigeration systems overnight as a result of the hacks.

The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers, which represents roughly 300 members, said a few of its members had been impacted. Some saw fridge systems begin to defrost on Monday night, while another saw its unit rise to 100C in temperature. However, because abattoirs are typically empty overnight, the units contained no food and no meat was lost.

A spokesman for the association said: "None who have been affected have lost any meat, but once again this must act as a reminder to all in the food industry that their businesses may be seen by some as targets." He urged members and the wider industry to remain vigilant. The National Cyber Security Centre said it is working with affected organisations and that the national impact is 'minimal'. It is understood that no major supermarket chain has been directly impacted by the hack.

How it is being reported

• UK meat suppliers’ fridges heat up after cyber attacks hit EuropeThe National Cyber Security Centre said it is working with the firms affected and that the national impact is ‘minimal’.The Independent · 3 Nov, 16:42
• Cyber attacks affect UK meat processing industry, top security official saysCyber attacks have affected the UK meat processing industry, a top cyber security official has said in the wake of hacks that hit supermarkets across Europe.Sky News · 3 Nov, 06:08

In this story: National Cyber Security Centre · Association of Independent Meat Suppliers · United Kingdom

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