Ransomware attacks have become increasingly common in recent years, and the latest one has caused chaos at the Hospital Clinic de Barcelona. On Sunday, the Spanish hospital was hit by a cyberattack, crippling its computer system and forcing the cancellation of 150 nonurgent operations and up to 3,000 patient checkups.
The attack shut down computers in the hospital’s laboratories, emergency room and pharmacy, as well as several external clinics. Hospital director Antoni Castells said that their contingency plan would allow them to function for several days, but he hoped the system would be fixed sooner. The Catalonia regional government has enlisted its Cybersecurity Agency to help restore the system, and the attack is believed to have been orchestrated from outside of Spain by a group called “Ransom House.”
So far, hackers have not made any ransom demand, and the regional government has made clear that no money will be paid. To compensate for the lack of computer access, the hospital is relying on paper records and diverting new urgent cases to other hospitals in the city. Spanish state news agency EFE reported that the attack has cut off access to patient records and communication between units.
The recent ransomware attack on the Hospital Clinic de Barcelona is a reminder of the severity of cyber threats. It is essential for all organizations to have a robust cybersecurity plan in place to protect against such attacks. It is also important for individuals to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect their data and privacy.
Key Points:
• Hospital Clinic de Barcelona hit by ransomware attack
• 150 nonurgent operations and up to 3,000 patient checkups cancelled
• Attack shut down computers at hospital’s laboratories, emergency room and pharmacy
• Attack believed to be orchestrated by “Ransom House” from outside Spain
• Hospital relying on paper records and diverting new urgent cases to other hospitals
• Cybersecurity plan essential to protect against attacks