Safety 0 sources · Running 36 days · Last updated Jun 24, 2026

Romanian Hospitals Face Cyber-Attack Crisis

Why It Matters

This cyber-attack underscores the precarious intersection of healthcare and technology, revealing how vulnerable critical infrastructure can be to cybercriminals. The disruption not only affected hospital operations but also posed serious risks to patient safety and care. As healthcare systems increasingly rely on digital solutions, the stakes are high for both patients and providers, making it imperative to address cybersecurity vulnerabilities.

Summary

In February 2024, over 100 hospitals in Romania were hit by a severe cyber-attack that targeted the Hippocrates medical software, crucial for managing patient data and hospital operations. The ransomware, named BackMyData, compromised the systems, prompting the national cyber-security center to order an immediate disconnection from the internet to prevent further damage. Medical staff were forced to revert to pen and paper for patient care, significantly disrupting hospital operations and endangering patient safety. As the situation unfolded, authorities worked to contain the attack and restore secure access to hospital systems, highlighting the vulnerabilities in healthcare technology. The incident raised alarms about the reliance on digital systems in critical sectors and the potential consequences of cyber threats on public health.