Shadowy hacking group threatens to release NHS patients’ data

The group have access to multiple terabytes of confidential patient data.

A hacker group is attempting to hold the NHS to ransom after allegedly stealing patient’s medical data during a cyber attack.

NHS Dumfries and Galloway warned earlier this that hackers may be in possession of a ‘significant quantity’ of confidential patient and staff information.

The group, who call themselves INC Ransom, are now threatening to release three terabytes of data unless their demands are met.

In a post of their dark web blog, the group released a ‘proof pack’ of data which was confirmed to be authentic.

Patients whose data has been leaked will be contacted by the board, while patient-facing services will continue as normal.

In a statement posted to the health board’s website, chief executive Jeff Ace said: ‘We absolutely deplore the release of confidential patient data as part of this criminal act.

‘This information has been released by hackers to evidence that this is in their possession.

‘We are continuing to work with Police Scotland, the National Cyber Security Centre, the Scottish Government, and other agencies in response to this developing situation.’

A spokesman for the National Cyber Security Centre said: ‘We are working with law enforcement, NHS Scotland and the Scottish Government to fully understand the impact of an incident.’

Labour MSP Colin Smyth has described the threats as ‘deeply concerning for NHS staff and patients’.

Raising the issue at Holyrood with Health Secretary Neil Gray, Mr Smyth said the attack on NHS Dumfries and Galloway was related to ‘extortion’ attempts on the health service.

‘I have no doubt that this will have been the motive in the recent attack on Dumfries and Galloway,’ he added.

Mr Gray said steps were being taken to help people protect themselves, and that there were ‘well-established procedures’ for dealing with cyber crime.

This is a developing news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

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