Over a million NHS users have data leaked following ransomware attack
Breached NHS data could be a decade old
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Aransomwareattack on the University of Manchester has exposed the details of 1.1 million NHS patients from across 200 hospitals.
According toThe Independent, information about major trauma patients was collected by the university for research purposes, and includes details of patients from across the UK. It is believed that NHS patient numbers have been leaked, as well as parts of their postcodes.
An internal investigation suggests that as much as 250GB of information was accessed during the breach by un unknown actor.
NHS data at risk
The database was launched in 2012 and contains more than a decade’s worth of patient data. It’s unclear how much of this was accessed at present, but NHS chiefs have been warned of the “potential for NHS data to be made available in the public domain.”
These are the best identity theft protection tools around>The first victims of the MOVEit ransomware attacks have been revealed>MOVEit Transfer has a major security issue - here’s what you need to know
A University of Manchester spokesperson toldThe Independent:
“We confirmed on 23 June that our systems have been accessed and student and alumni data has been copied. Individuals have been informed of this cyber incident and offered support and advice to further protect their data.”
The spokesperson confirmed that the university is collaborating with partners like the Information Commissioner’s Office, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), the National Crime Agency, and other authorities and regulatory bodies, as it seeks to address the leak.
Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!
While details of the threat actor behind the attack are currently scarce, the incident looks not to be connected to the MOVEit file transfer service which has been hacked in recent weeks, causing headaches for tens of organizations and bodies across the globe.
The NHS has not yet made a public comment on the breach and is likely waiting to live out the investigation ahead of notifying potential victims.
With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!
Scammers are using fake copyright infringement claims to hack businesses
HPE reveals critical security bug affecting networking access points
Move over Steam Deck and forget the Switch 2 - the next-generation of handheld gaming PCs is almost here
