Virus Attack on UK Hospitals Slows Down Services

The Lincolnshire and Goole Trust of UK's National Health Services is currently non-operational due to a cyber-attack. Seemingly, malicious software contaminated PC-networks at Grimsby and Scunthorpe on October 30. That prompted the Trust to close the most important computers being shared on the information technology network for quarantining and annihilating a virus the trust believed was the cause.

Deputy Chief Executive Dr. Karen Dunderdale with the Trust said in a press interview next day that following a virus attack on their systems they had decided with assistance of expert advice towards closing most of their computers in order to quarantine and annihilate the malware.

On October 31, NLAG (Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust) disclosed about a PC-virus infecting its electronic devices on Sunday.

The incident that as well impacted the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust turned out to be a forcible reason for shutting down many portions of NLAG's computers as well as to tentatively hang up the majority of services at the Foundation's Scunthorpe, Grimsby and Goole hospitals, November 1. Grahamcluley.com posted this, November 2, 2016.

And with the suspension of the services, hospitals have annulled operations all over Lincolnshire while delays are expected at the A&E departments in the region. The Trust's online site published on its top page that its chief priority was security and safety of patients. Following one major incident, all scheduled activities, diagnostic procedures and outpatient appointments had to be annulled for the day (Tuesday), the published material read.

Meanwhile, BBC broadcasted that the hospital at Lincoln County cancelled some twenty operations, while the hospital at Pilgrim County within Boston cancelled fifteen. The Trust's medical director Laurence Roberts told BBC that though it was possible to access patient data, it was nonetheless slow.

Also, given that previously several NHS websites ran obsolete WordPress editions devoid of being managed in any way, it's only hoped the cyber-attack gives into improved security defenses at both NHS and NLAG. Moreover, it must be ensured that every relevant workstation is using updated software. That would aid in improved safeguard of patient data while not let the ICO (Information Commissioner's Office) make a call.

» SPAMfighter News - 11/8/2016