Second IT attack on NHS services
HACKERS have attacked one of Scotland’s biggest health boards for a second time – causing health chiefs to warn patients to stay away.
Operations have been cancelled after NHS Lanarkshire hospitals and GP practices were hit by a cyber attack yesterday.
The health board confirmed malicious software had been detected in IT systems.
Dr Jane Burns, medical director for the acute division, said: “I would ask that patients do not attend our hospitals unless it is essential.
“If you do turn up at A&E and do not require emergency care, you may be sent away from the department or experience a lengthy wait.
“Emergency care will still be provided for those who do require to be seen.”
Health chiefs said they “took immediate action” to put a solution in place and minimise disruption.
It is unclear whether the health board were deliberately targeted.
NHS Lanarkshire were one of the worst-hit health authorities in Scotland in the widespread cyber attacks in May.
The board’s chief executive Calum Campbell said: “We detected some incidences of malware and took immediate action to prevent this spreading while we carried out further investigations. We are putting in place a solution from our IT security provider.”
NHS Lanarkshire hospitals include Monklands, Wishaw General and Hairmyres.