In recent news, three more hospitals in Merseyside have fallen victim to cyber-attacks, highlighting the increasing threat to healthcare institutions. The affected hospitals include Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, and Royal Liverpool University Hospital. This incident follows a previous attack on Wirral’s Arrowe Park Hospital, which declared a major incident on November 25th.
The cyber attackers have threatened to release sensitive data before the hospitals have had the chance to fully investigate the breaches. Screenshots of the stolen data have already been published online, raising concerns about patient confidentiality and data security. While the hospitals have managed to secure their systems to prevent further access, the investigation into the extent of the data breach is still ongoing.
Despite the severity of the attacks, the hospitals have assured the public that their services remain operational. However, patients are advised to expect delays, particularly in emergency departments. The Wirral University Teaching Hospital Trust is in the process of restoring its main clinical system and has downgraded the incident to a “business continuity incident.” Emergency treatments are being prioritised, but longer waiting times are anticipated.
Merseyside Police, along with the National Crime Agency and the National Cyber Security Centre, are actively involved in providing support and assistance to the affected hospitals. Their collaboration aims to mitigate the impact of the attacks and prevent future incidents.