Russian cyber criminals target LVHN with ransomware attack

Lehigh Valley Health Network is reporting that it was the victim of a ransomware attack. 

The attack came from a cybersecurity ransomware gang called BlackCat, which is associated with Russia. 

In a statement, health network President and CEO Brian Nester said that the attack has not impacted hospital operations to date. 

Based on an initial analysis, the attack was made against a network supporting a physician’s practice in Lackawanna County. 

According to LVHN, it detected unauthorized network activity on Feb. 6 and immediately launched an investigation and notified law enforcement. 

While the health network said the investigation is ongoing, at this point it is believed that it targeted patient images for clinical radiology oncology treatment and other sensitive information. 

BlackCat demanded the health network pay a ransom, but LVHN refused.  It said it is aware that the gang has targeted other institutions in the health care and education sectors. 

The health network said it is working with its cybersecurity experts to evaluate the information involved and will provide notice to any patients impacted by the attack.