Watch CBS News

FBI Probing Virus Behind Outage At MedStar Health Facilities

WASHINGTON (WJZ) -- Hospitals hacked! There was a major cyber attack on Maryland's second largest healthcare system. A computer virus has infected Medstar Health's system---and now the FBI is investigating.

Meghan McCorkell has the latest details.

Sources tell WJZ investigators are looking into whether malicious software known as "ransomware" could be to blame.

A massive cyberattack has disabled computer systems at MedStar Health's 10 hospitals and 250 outpatient facilities.

"It's certainly alarming to know that confidential information is being compromised," said visiting patient Nashae Bennett.

Hospital officials say they were first alerted to the issue early Monday morning when employee log-ins failed, making them unable to access the email system and patient records. Suspecting a virus, MedStar Health took down their entire system.

In a statement, they said, "MedStar's highest priorities are the safety of our patients and associates and their confidentiality of information."

The FBI is now looking into whether this could be a so-called "ransomware" attack. Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts files. It can only be unlocked with a software key after a ransom is paid.

Several hospitals nationwide have fallen victim to ransomware, including Hollywood Presbyterian in Los Angeles, which paid $17,000 to get its system back from hackers.

"Over the last three years, ransomware has become a huge issue," said cybersecurity expert Steve Taormino.

Taormino says if ransomware is to blame, MedStar would be one of the largest companies ever targeted.

"It can be dangerous in the sense that doctors may not have the most updated medical data to help prescribe or help move patients forward," Taormino said.

Now the FBI is trying to track down the hackers.

Hospital officials say there is no evidence any patient information was stolen.

Other local hospitals tell WJZ they've stepped up their security in response to the MedStar hacking.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.