Hacking attack threatens iconic beer supply

Queensland's iconic XXXX beer could be in short supply in coming weeks as owner Lion Nathan grapples with a major cyber-security breach.

But it's not just XXXX – Furphy and James Squire beer supplies are also under threat, along with Dairy Farmers milk and Farmers Union iced coffee and flavoured milks.

The brewery has warned pubs that drinks might be in short supply.

And there's no easy answer, with the hackers seemingly holding all the cards.

Former police officer and cyber-security expert Brian hay told 9News all businesses were at risk.

"From a Ransomware attack, it could be anything from $300 to $30 million," he said.

There have been no confirmed details released of any demands by the hackers.

Other major companies inkling Honda, and Fisher and Paykel, have also been targeted.