HACKERS have published NHS patients’ confidential data in a “deplorable” attack.
Shocking reports emerged today after group INC Ransom boasted about their hack on the dark web.
They alleged it was in possession of three terabytes of data from NHS Scotland.
In the terrifying post, the group also posted “proof” they had access to the data – which has now been confirmed by the NHS to be genuine.
NHS Dumfries and Galloway confirmed that “clinical data relating to a small number of patients” had been published.
Healthcare bosses are now working with police and cyber security experts.
In a statement posted on the NHS website, chief exec Jeff Ace said: “We absolutely deplore the release of confidential patient data as part of this criminal act.
“This information has been released by hackers to evidence that this is in their possession.
“We are continuing to work with Police Scotland, the National Cyber Security Centre, the Scottish Government and other agencies in response to this developing situation.”
INC Ransom were first established on the dark web in July last year.
They encrypt and steal data from their targets before threatening to publish them online if money isn’t paid.
According to monitoring tool Ransomlooker the group has hacked at least 65 organisations since they formed.