To arrange an interview with Professor Oli Buckley, email the Public Relations team or call 01509 222224.
ENDS
“In our interconnected world, a hacker’s keyboard can disrupt the journey from farm to fork” – cyber security expert comments on growing vulnerability in our food infrastructure.
Image credit: Getty
As incidents of cybercrime and security breaches dominate the news – particularly in connection to our groceries, Professor in Cyber Security, Oli Buckley comments on how online attacks, such as the recent incidents involving M&S, the Co-op, and now major distributor, Peter Green Chilled, pose serious risks to the complex supply chains that sit behind the shelves we shop from.
“It’s been a tough few weeks for retail and just as the dust seemed to be settling, along comes another cyber attack to remind us that even our mince isn’t safe from hackers.
“This time, the disruption is further up the chain. Peter Green Chilled, a distributor supplying major UK supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Aldi, has become the latest victim of a ransomware attack. While they might not be a household name, their role in keeping our fridges stocked is every bit as vital as M&S or the Co-op. With their systems compromised, thousands of meat products could now go to waste, giving our already shaken supply chains yet another unwelcome jolt.
“This isn’t an isolated blip. Recent attacks on Marks & Spencer and Co-op highlight a growing vulnerability in our food infrastructure. The UK currently produces only around 60% of the food we consume, meaning we rely on intricate, just-in-time supply chains. Throwing a stone anywhere along into the stream can quickly turn into a wave, and that wave crashes right into the checkout aisle.
“It’s a stark reminder that in our interconnected world, a hacker’s keyboard can disrupt the journey from farm to fork. While companies shore up their cyber defences, perhaps it’s time we all took a moment to appreciate the complex choreography behind our groceries — and the invisible battles fought each day to keep them on our shelves.”
To arrange an interview with Professor Oli Buckley, email the Public Relations team or call 01509 222224.
ENDS
Notes for editors
Press release reference number: 25/81
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