In a recent cybersecurity incident, Ascension, a major health system, has disclosed that cybercriminals stole files potentially containing personal information. This comes about a month after Ascension initially reported falling victim to a ransomware attack.
Ascension revealed that the attackers managed to extract files from seven of its 25,000 file servers. While the investigation is ongoing, preliminary findings suggest that these files may include protected health information and personally identifiable information. However, Ascension has yet to determine the exact data compromised or the specific patients affected.
Despite the breach, Ascension reported no evidence indicating that data from its electronic health records were stolen. The attack was traced back to an employee inadvertently downloading a malicious file, mistaking it for a legitimate document.
In response to the attack, Ascension is offering free credit monitoring and identity theft protection services to patients and employees. Those interested in these services can call 1-888-498-8066 to enrol.
The attack, discovered on May 8, caused paradigm altering disruptions across Ascension’s network. Some elective surgeries and appointments were postponed, and one hospital in Illinois temporarily redirected ambulances to other facilities. Nurses at several hospitals faced challenges, such as difficulties in accessing doctors’ orders for medications and tests, and issues with their standard procedures for medication administration.
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