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PHP abuse signals traced outside the Netherlands
Reports of hackers targeting two critical PHP security flaws have not originated from the Netherlands, according to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). While the watchdog continues to investigate intelligence shared by international partners, no domestic incidents have been reported following Wednesday's precautionary website outages. With PHP powering millions of sites globally, cyber chiefs are urging all organisations to apply the newly released security patches immediately rather than waiting for signs of an attack.
Business
Albert Heijn delivery resumes
Albert Heijn has resumed home grocery deliveries following a two-week outage caused by a major cybersecurity incident at parent company Ahold Delhaize. Operating at roughly a third of its normal capacity, the supermarket chain has re-opened ordering to select customers and begun dispatching essential items like dairy, fresh produce, and kitchen roll. While delivery slots and product availability are set to expand over the coming week, impacted customers are receiving store credit for previous cancellations as police investigate the breach.
News
Dutch data protection authority website online following PHP Leak
The website of the Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP) has returned online alongside that of the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) following temporary shutdowns caused by a widespread PHP software vulnerability. Discovered on Wednesday, the security flaw prompted several organisations to proactively take their sites offline until a patch released around 16:00 could be applied, though most central government services remained accessible throughout the incident.
Business
Research institutions surge in European patent applications
The number of European patent applications filed by universities, research institutes, and research hospitals has more than doubled over the past two decades. According to the European Patent Office, the Netherlands is among the strongest growth markets, with TNO leading Dutch institutions in patent filings.
Business
Empty shelves persist at Albert Heijn following cyberattack
Despite Albert Heijn's assurances that stores were being fully replenished following a major cybersecurity incident, empty shelves remained visible across multiple Dutch locations on Friday morning. Fresh produce, meat, and dairy lines have been particularly hard hit, while online delivery services and mobile apps remain offline as the supermarket giant gradually restores its systems and works to clear distribution backlogs nationwide.
Business
Industrial output sees strongest growth in over four years
Dutch industrial output grew by 12 per cent year-on-year in August, marking its fastest pace of expansion in over four years behind a global boom in artificial intelligence technology. Driven by strong global demand for ASML's advanced chipmaking machinery, the country's equipment manufacturing sector jumped by over 45 per cent, boosting overall factory production and pushing Dutch producer confidence to a multi-year high despite a 4 per cent contraction in the chemical industry.
Governance
China rejects Dutch cybersecurity warning
China has pushed back against Dutch intelligence warnings about a growing cyber threat, accusing the Netherlands of spreading unfounded claims and damaging the country's reputation.
Business
Hans Anders halts sales of Meta smart glasses
Dutch optical chain Hans Anders has suspended sales of Meta's AI-powered smart glasses as political and public debate over privacy concerns surrounding the technology continues to intensify.
News
Dutch organizations threaten Meta with lawsuit over privacy-violating AI glasses
Dutch advocacy groups Offlimits and The Firewall have given Meta a two-week deadline to stop selling its AI camera glasses in the Netherlands or face a legal injunction. The organizations warn that the device facilitates secret filming and online harassment, while processing unconsented footage in violation of European privacy laws.
Business
Dutch Agencies warn of the ease of AI cyberattacks
Dutch security agencies are warning that artificial intelligence is helping cybercriminals launch faster, more effective cyberattacks. In an open letter, the AIVD, MIVD, police, and other authorities urged organizations to strengthen cybersecurity, improve employee awareness, and prepare for growing AI-driven threats.
Economy
ABP to Invest €1 Billion in European startups and scaleups
Dutch pension giant ABP plans to invest around €1 billion in European startups and scaleups over the next three years, beginning with a €250 million commitment to the Scaleup Europe Fund. The move aims to support innovation, AI, quantum technology, and other high-growth sectors while generating strong returns for pension participants.