The Health Service Executive (HSE) became aware of a significant ransomware attack on some of its systems on Friday 14 May 2021.
While there is an ongoing criminal investigation into the attack, the government’s priority is to secure as fast a resumption of all medical services as can possibly be achieved, consistent with ensuring that the HSE’s system can be safely and robustly restored. No effort is being spared to achieve this.
The cyber attack has caused disruption to HSE services. The HSE is providing regular updates on service availability on its website – viewing the website is fine and we encourage people to use it to access information on services.
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is leading on the response to the cyber security incident, along with the HSE. The NCSC is also engaged with other critical national infrastructure operators, including government departments and agencies, to provide information and support on dealing with incidents of this type.
An Garda Síochána, working closely with others, both nationally and internationally continues to pursue every avenue available in investigating those responsible for this crime.
Publication of personal data without consent is a serious offence. The HSE has secured a court injunction preventing publication.
However, there is a risk that patients’ data will be abused.
Anyone who has reason to suspect that they are victims of this cyber attack is urged to make a report at their local Garda station. Cybercrime advice is available at www.garda.ie.