Publish date: 29 November 2024
As you may be aware, a major cyber security incident was declared at Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust earlier in the week which remains ongoing. Additionally, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital have reported similar ongoing cyber incidents. These matters are currently under criminal investigation, and we will provide further updates as more information becomes available.
This is having a significant impact, and the Trust has reverted to business continuity processes in the areas affected.
Due to this incident and the time of year when cybercrime typically peaks, we urge all colleagues to remain extra vigilant and urge you to continue to follow cyber security best practice.
NHS Informatics Merseyside is working with regional and national agencies to seek more information regarding this attack and has increased monitoring across our digital infrastructure. Whilst we have advanced cyber security defences in place, there are simple steps you can take to help ensure our digital systems and data remain secure.
One of the most common attempts to breach cyber security defences is the use of scam emails.
Beware of scam emails
Scam emails are fraudulent messages that try to trick you into giving away personal, medical or financial information, or infect your device with malicious software, also called malware, to steal data.
These emails can be very convincing and may appear to come from a legitimate source, such as a person or organisation you know.
Please refer to our tips and guidance below on how to spot a scam email and report anything suspicious immediately to your IT Service Desk.
- IT will never ask for your password over email
- Check sender address, does it match the name?
- Urgency - does the email sound urgent in nature?
- If you think it’s a scam email don’t click any links
- Always refer third party organisations who want to connect to your PC to the IT Service Desk
- If in doubt contact your IT Service Desk first
Read our guide on how to spot and protect yourself from scam emails
Further information and support
Please ensure you report anything suspicious immediately to your IT Service Desk, who can also be contacted for cyber security guidance and advice.
Additional support, including hints and tips, can also be found on the Be Cyber Savvy website managed by the Cheshire and Merseyside Health and Care Partnership Cyber Security Group.
We thank you in advance for your support.