A recent cyberattack on the MSWiA hospital in Krakow has raised concerns about the security of healthcare systems. Michał Zabojszcz, the hospital’s director, reassured the public that while the attack disrupted services, patient health and safety were not compromised. The hospital’s electronic medical records system, which is responsible for admitting patients, ordering tests, and prescribing medications, was targeted by hackers on Saturday. In response, the hospital quickly reverted to manual, paper-based processes, ensuring minimal disruption to patient care. Zabojszcz noted that most patients were likely unaware of the system’s downtime.
Although the hack disrupted several operations, the hospital has not confirmed whether patient data was compromised.
The director acknowledged the potential for a data breach but emphasized that investigations are ongoing. Meanwhile, the hospital has faced challenges in handling emergency admissions, with limited capacity for urgent cases. To manage the increased strain, local hospitals have been collaborating with MSWiA to redirect patient traffic. The hospital is also working to minimize admissions in the coming days to prevent further complications.
Despite the disruption in laboratory diagnostics, Zabojszcz reported that the issue has been resolved, and the operating theater continues to function normally.
Authorities are investigating the cyberattack, with hackers reportedly leaving a message in the hospital’s computer systems requesting further contact. The police are actively involved in tracking down the perpetrators, with assistance from cybercrime units. In light of the attack, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration has announced the suspension of admissions to the Neurology Ward starting Monday.
Minister Tomasz Siemoniak expressed his concern over the attack, calling it a deliberate attempt to harm both patients and hospital staff. He commended the swift response from various agencies, including the Central Office for Combating Cybercrime and the Ministry of Digital Affairs. With technical efforts underway to secure the hospital’s systems and locate the attackers, Siemoniak thanked the police, CERT Polska, the e-Health Center, and hospital management for their professionalism and rapid action during this crisis.
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