The NHS has been struck by a suspected cyber-attack which is affecting hospitals throughout the country.
According to reports, hackers have taken control of the NHS’ online database, with telephone lines and IT systems shut down in hospitals and trusts all over England.
Early reports claim that the hackers are looking for $300 worth of the digital currency bitcoin, or the equivalent of around £415,000. They have threatened to delete system files if the ransom is not paid.
Doctors from the known affected trusts – in London, Blackburn, Nottingham, Cumbria and Hertfordshire – are said to be working with pen and paper, as they have no access to their online systems.
NHS Digital has released a statement, confirming that it is investigating the incident and is working to retrieve control over its systems and databases.
“NHS Digital is working closely with the National Cyber Security Centre, the Department of Health and NHS England to support the affected organisations and to recommend appropriate mitigations,” a spokesperson said.
Well an early finish on a Friday but not for a nice reason. A cyber attack on the NHS just so nasty!
— April Mowforth (@mowfie) May 12, 2017
We’re currently experiencing significant problems with our telephone network – which we’re trying to resolve as soon as possible.
— E&N Herts Hospitals (@enherts) May 12, 2017
This means that people will have difficulty phoning us for the time being - please bear with us. Apologies for any inconvenience.
— E&N Herts Hospitals (@enherts) May 12, 2017
Please avoid contacting your GP practice unless absolutely necessary. Should you wish to obtain non-urgent medical advice please call 111.
— Fylde and Wyre CCG (@FyldeandWyreCCG) May 12, 2017
“This attack was not specifically targeted at the NHS and is affecting organisations from across a range of sectors.
“Our focus is on supporting organisations to manage the incident swiftly and decisively, but we will continue to communicate with the NHS colleagues and will share more information as it becomes available.”
Meanwhile, various hospitals and trusts have taken to social media to share what updates they can, and to keep their patients informed of what is going on.
In the meantime, ‘non-urgent’ procedures have also been postponed in certain areas where the systems are under attack.
Anyone with an urgent or life-threatening emergency is asked to ring NHS111 or 999 for urgent medical advice.
We will keep you updated as more information emerges on this story.