Alarming study

Ransomware attacks on hospitals are booming

Computers have been part of the OR for years. But they can also become a danger (symbolic photo).

(Bild: Marija Kanizaj )

Hackers and ransomware extortionists can pose a threat to patients in hospitals. A Tyrolean IT expert knows which vulnerabilities those responsible in the healthcare sector should watch out for.

Paralyzed computers in the operating theatre, emergency patients who have to be transferred to other hospitals or sensitive data that is suddenly not secure: When cyber criminals attack the healthcare system, horror scenarios can arise. As was the case about a year ago in one of Barcelona's largest hospitals. "Attackers paralyzed the computer system there and forced the cancellation of operations," says Klaus Gheri, European head of the IT security company Barracuda Networks based in Innsbruck.