The European Commission has warned that repeated cyberattacks affecting dozens of supermarkets in Europe could represent a deliberate attempt to disrupt the food supply chain and undermine consumer confidence. Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen described the situation as deeply concerning.
Hansen said food security in the European Union is not currently at risk, but added that food waste and the impact on businesses are real. He said he would raise the issue with fellow commissioners at the next meeting of the College of Commissioners.
The commissioner stressed that food security involves more than producing enough food. It also requires a resilient supply chain capable of responding to new and evolving threats.
European Commission services met retailers affected by the attacks in October to assess the situation. Hansen said he would continue monitoring developments and seek a complete overview of the preparedness plans retailers have established to respond to such incidents.
He called for a coordinated approach across the entire food supply chain, including wholesalers, logistics operators and retailers, saying every link must be prepared to withstand and respond to cyber threats.
Sources: ANSA Mondo.