France has accused Iran’s Revolutionary Guards of launching cyberattacks that disrupted hundreds of commercial refrigerators and freezers. The attacks caused fires, destroyed food supplies and raised serious concerns about Europe’s cybersecurity.
French officials announced the allegations on November 9, 2026, following an investigation into attacks targeting supermarkets and other businesses.
The initial cyberattack occurred on October 11. Hackers allegedly gained remote access to refrigeration systems and manipulated temperature settings. Some units overheated and caught fire, while others stopped preserving food properly.
Supermarket employees were forced to discard large quantities of spoiled meat, melted ice cream and other refrigerated products. One business owner estimated that nationwide losses could reach tens of millions of euros.
Investigators believe outdated software and poorly protected equipment made several refrigeration systems vulnerable.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot summoned Iran’s ambassador and warned that additional European Union sanctions could follow.
Authorities identified a cyber unit allegedly linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards. Prosecutors also sought international arrest warrants for three suspected individuals.
The situation worsened when another wave of attacks targeted more than 100 establishments across Europe in November.
Some refrigeration systems used by French blood banks were also affected. Employees had to transfer blood supplies into alternative storage facilities to prevent damage.
Meanwhile, American investigators are examining similar incidents involving refrigerators at military commissaries in August.
The Pentagon reportedly considers Iran a possible suspect, although investigators have not established a connection between the American and European incidents.
Iran has previously denied involvement in malicious cyber operations. The allegations remain disputed.
The incidents highlight growing concerns that hackers can disrupt essential infrastructure through ordinary internet-connected equipment.
