Dear MEL Topic Readers,
If hackers can
take control of a supermarket freezer, how vulnerable is other tech?
The Internet of
Things (IoT) is a network of physical objects embedded with sensors, software,
and network connectivity that allow them to collect, share, and act on data via
the Internet. While the technology makes devices, machines, and cars smarter, it
could make them vulnerable to cyberattacks. In May last year, UK supermarkets
were attacked by ransomware hackers, and their business operations were
disrupted for weeks. Last month, over 500 supermarkets in France were hit by a
major cyberattack, and the temperatures of their internet-connected
refrigerators and freezers were manipulated, creating a huge amount of food losses.
Earlier this month, a widespread wave of cyberattacks hit supermarket and
grocery refrigeration systems across many European countries and spoiled large
amounts of chilled and frozen food. As more home appliances, such as refrigerators,
air conditioners, and security systems, become connected and can be monitored
and controlled remotely, they can become targets of cyberattacks. Manufacturers,
service providers, and users of such connected devices all need to keep them
updated to protect from cyberattacks.
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