Business · BBC Technology
Exploits have been found before in some devices
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But there's no evidence domestic appliances are being targeted in the cyber-attacks which targeted supermarkets in November.
Key facts
- Ciaran Martin, former chief executive of the UK's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) says manufacturers needed to do more to make connected devices secure
- Since April 2024, UK law has required manufacturers of certain consumer smart devices to meet minimum cyber security standards, including requirements around passwords and security updates
- However, researchers from UK Cyber Defence have identified more than 800 refrigeration and building-control interfaces associated with British retailers that can be accessed over the public internet
- Binance users withdraw $3.6bn after largest-ever crypto hack
Summary
Supermarkets across Europe have been hit by a suspected cyber-attack affecting their fridges and freezers, and raising concern about the vulnerabilities of internet-connected hardware from industrial machinery to humble domestic appliances. Smart devices which are connected to the internet can include fridges, central heating, and even washing machines. And while that makes them easier to control remotely, in theory, any device which goes online can potentially be exploited by malicious actors. However, that doesn't mean hackers can easily take control of it, and big brands generally go to great lengths to make sure their tech is secure.