Cyberattack Disrupts Wisconsin Milk Distribution

  • Issue

    02 November 2021

  • Editor

    Jack Hall

  • Editor in Chief

    Amery Smock

  • Date

    10/26/2021

  • Analysis

    Schreiber Foods, one of the largest milk producers in Wisconsin, was affected by an undisclosed “cyber event” that halted operations at the company’s plants and distribution centers. Attackers reportedly demanded a $2.5 million ransom after the attack [1]. The cyber event impacted systems starting on Friday, October 25, and lasted through the weekend [2]. The attack affected Schreiber’s ability to receive raw materials, or ship and produce products. Furthermore, some employees were unable to get inside buildings to work.

    This event is the latest in a series of ransomware attacks against the food and agricultural sector. In particular, it highlights the vulnerability of the dairy industry, due to the perishable nature of the raw product. We recommend that companies within the sector evaluate their corporate and operational network security to reduce effects on production. In addition, companies need to develop, maintain, and rehearse a response plan to minimize production delays following attacks.

  • Sources

    [1] Wisconsin State Farmer Article https://www.wisfarmer.com/story/news/2021/10/26/schreiber-foods-hit-cyberattack-plants-closed/8558252002/
    [2] ZDNet Report https://www.zdnet.com/article/schreiber-foods-back-to-normal-after-ransomware-attack-shut-down-milk-plants/

  • Analyst

    Joseph Agres

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