Ransomware Disrupts Door Access and HVAC at Winnipeg Hospital
Summary
A ransomware incident disrupted door access and HVAC systems at Winnipeg’s Health Sciences Centre. Shared Health said patient care continued uninterrupted, launched an investigation and increased security at hospital entrances.
Key points
- Shared Health described the event as a ransomware incident affecting certain facility maintenance systems.
- Door access and heating, ventilation and air conditioning were affected at Health Sciences Centre.
- Shared Health said clinical services continued uninterrupted and its investigation found no indication that patients were affected.
- Shared Health launched an investigation, notified the provincial government and sought expert advice.
- The hospital increased security and institutional safety officer presence at entrances while doors remained affected.
- In 2024, Manitoba’s auditor general recommended annual testing and more cybersecurity training for Shared Health.
Article Details
- Victim Organization
- Health Sciences Centre
- Incident Type
- Ransomware incident affecting facility maintenance systems
- Operational Impact
- Door access and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems were affected. Shared Health reported that patient care and clinical operations continued uninterrupted, and that its investigation had found no indication patients were affected.
- Claim Status
- confirmed
People
Darlene JacksonPresident of the Manitoba Nurses Union who described concerns about hospital entrance security while doors were affected.Tara SeelShared Health spokesperson who provided the health authority’s statement about the ransomware incident.Tyson ShtykaloManitoba auditor general who recommended cybersecurity testing and training for Shared Health in 2024 and warned of possible delays responding to incidents.Uzoma AsagwaraHealth Minister who commended hospital staff for acting quickly to protect patients and staff.