False bomb alerts and cyberattacks disrupt services across Europe

In recent days, false bomb alerts and cyberattacks have disrupted services in Italy and other parts of Europe.

The incidents included bomb threats against 271 Italian schools and alerts targeting flights, as well as cyberattacks on supermarket refrigeration systems.

France also reported an attack that raised the temperature in blood-storage fridges, but the government said there was no health impact.

The attacks have hit essential services and supply chains, while the false alerts have forced checks and interruptions.

Italy’s national cybersecurity agency chief warned that the combined threats could weaken public trust and the reliability of services.

Investigators have not established whether the incidents were coordinated, although security agencies are examining that possibility.

The agency has called for security systems on connected devices to be reviewed and updated, and investigations will seek to identify those responsible.