US cybersecurity authorities have warned of an ongoing threat targeting internet-connected industrial refrigeration systems, raising concerns about the security of equipment used across critical infrastructure sectors, as reported by Reuters and Techcrunch.
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and other federal agencies have identified attacks involving refrigeration control systems, including equipment running outdated or unsupported software.
According to reports, cyber incidents affecting refrigeration operations have occurred in at least a dozen countries, with some resulting in spoiled food and operational disruptions.
Critical Infrastructure Faces New Risks
Industrial refrigeration systems are widely used in food production, distribution centers, pharmaceutical storage and healthcare facilities, where maintaining precise temperatures is essential.
Some of the reported attacks involved unsupported refrigeration equipment manufactured by Danfoss, highlighting the potential risks associated with aging industrial technology connected to the internet.
Cybercriminals have also reportedly targeted a French blood bank, while the US Department of Defense is investigating incidents involving refrigeration systems operated by military facilities.
Cybersecurity Concerns Extend Beyond Traditional IT Systems
Industrial refrigeration equipment increasingly relies on network-connected monitoring and automated controls to manage temperatures, energy consumption and maintenance.
While these technologies can improve operational efficiency, they also create additional points of exposure when systems lack security updates or appropriate network protections.
Cybersecurity agencies have emphasized the importance of identifying vulnerable equipment, restricting unnecessary internet access and maintaining supported software.
The reported incidents add to broader concerns about the security of operational technology used in essential services and industrial supply chains.
