WIREDGOV

The breaking news that a number of hospitals across the country have been hit by a large scale cyber-attack due to an apparent ransom attack highlights the need for hospitals to have robust and tested cyber security, run by trained and supported IT professionals. So says BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, which has recently launched a campaign to encourage greater collaboration and focus on patients across the health service, in partnership with other information-related professional bodies. Part of that focus means strengthening defences against such attacks.

David Evans, Director of Policy & Community at BCS said: “As news continues to break about this attack, we are reminded that there are some very sick and warped individuals in this world who would seek to put people’s safety and wellbeing at risk in return for money. The fact that some trusts have, as a result of this attack, had to turn patients away and put services on an emergency footing shows the reliance and trust placed on information and technology.

Unfortunately, any system can be hacked, and that is why trusts must recognise how important it is that they support IT professionals who can protect and defend against such heinous attacks. The IT profession in health and care also needs to step up and meet that challenge.”

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