Two UK Hospitals Hit by Cyberattacks, One Postponed Procedures

Two UK Hospitals Hit by Cyberattacks, One Postponed Procedures

December 2, 2024 at 06:55AM

Two NHS hospitals in the UK reported cyberattacks last week, with Alder Hey investigating a ransomware claim regarding stolen patient data. The Wirral University Hospital also experienced a cyber incident, disrupting services but without confirmed ransomware involvement. Both hospitals are working to secure systems and assess impacts on operations.

**Meeting Notes Takeaways: Cyberattacks on NHS Hospitals**

1. **Recent Cyberattacks**: Two NHS hospitals in the UK were targeted by cyberattacks last week, including incidents involving ransomware.

2. **Alder Hey Children’s Hospital**:
– Investigating potential system breaches and theft of patient records.
– Acknowledgment of published data online claimed to be obtained from their systems.
– Ransomware group “Inc Ransom” added Alder Hey to its leak site, alleging theft of 2018-2024 patient data, including donor reports.
– No impact on hospital services reported; security measures are being reinforced.
– Incident not linked to the attack on Wirral University Teaching Hospitals.

3. **Wirral University Teaching Hospital**:
– Responding to a cyberattack by shutting down IT systems and reverting to manual processes.
– Some disruptions to planned services and postponed procedures, yet emergency treatment remains prioritized.
– The type of cyberattack remains unclear; ransomware is suspected, but no group has claimed responsibility.

4. **Impact on Services**: Both hospitals currently maintain availability of services, but planned appointments and procedures may be affected, especially at Wirral.

5. **Continued Vigilance**: Both hospitals are actively working with partners and focusing on cybersecurity measures to mitigate further risks and understand the full impact of these incidents.

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