NHS working to recover from global cyberattack
Teams ‘working round the clock’ to fix systems rendered inaccessible
The NHS is working to bring its systems back online after it became the highest-profile victim of a global ransomware attack and faced renewed concern about the strength of its infrastructure, according to an article on The Guardian website.
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) said teams were “working round the clock” in response to the attack, which resulted in operations being cancelled, ambulances being diverted and documents such as patient records made unavailable in England and Scotland, the article said.
Healthcare facility computers in the U.K. were among tens of thousands hit in almost 100 countries by malware that appeared to be using technology stolen from the U.S. National Security Agency in the U.S. It blocks access to any files on a PC until a ransom is paid.
The attacks exploit a vulnerability in Windows. In December it was reported that nearly all NHS trusts were using an obsolete version of Windows for which Microsoft had stopped providing security updates in April 2014.
May 16, 2017
Topic Area: Security
Recent Posts
Cost Saving Strategies for Hospital Modernization Projects
Modernization efforts can save healthcare entities money if planned correctly.
Central Jersey Medical Center Reports Ransomware Attack
At this time, there is no evidence that patient information has been misused.
Ground Broken on New Northside Hospital Cherokee Medical Building
Construction on the new medical office building is expected to be completed by spring 2027.
Spaces That Support: Patient-Centered Design for Modern Reproductive Health
Modern facilities must integrate highly specialized laboratories with thoughtful, patient-centered spaces that prioritize privacy, comfort and emotional well-being.
Modernization of Buildings Require Collaboration Across All Disciplines
Retrofitting outdated facilities requires consulting all departments on how to best improve operations.