Ransomware Roulette: How a Cyberattack Turned Deadly for NHS Patients
Synnovis’s 2024 ransomware attack left NHS hospitals in a diagnostic debacle, delaying 10,000 appointments and even leading to a tragic death. While cybercriminals played doctor, patients played the waiting game—sometimes with severe consequences. This has provoked calls for beefed-up cybersecurity measures across the healthcare system.
Hot Take:
In a world where ransomware attacks are as common as finding a British person sipping tea, the Synnovis cyber-attack takes the cake for being the most British of all – causing delays, confusion, and a tragic loss, all while the NHS was just trying to keep calm and carry on. The hackers might have left, but the chaos they brewed is here to stay, much like a lingering cup of lukewarm Earl Grey.
Key Points:
- Synnovis, the pathology services provider for NHS hospitals, was hit by a ransomware attack in 2024.
- The cyber-attack led to significant delays in blood test results, impacting patient care.
- King’s College Hospital confirmed a patient’s death was linked to these delays.
- The attack affected over 10,000 patient appointments and delayed 1,100 cancer treatments.
- New cybersecurity measures are being implemented across NHS to prevent future attacks.
Already a member? Log in here