Data Breach Leads to Suspension of Services
The Kwai Tsing District Health Centre is rescheduling seasonal flu vaccinations and blood collection appointments after a hacking incident disrupted its outsourced network system on Sunday. This cyberattack, which was discovered earlier this week, has raised concerns about the security of personal data.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Health Bureau’s Primary Healthcare Commission revealed that the compromised system contained sensitive information such as individuals’ names, membership numbers, dates of birth, residential areas, and the first four digits of identity card numbers. The data belongs to people enrolled in a vaccination program.
The Health Bureau expressed deep concern about the breach, stressing the need for immediate corrective action. Authorities have directed the centre’s operator, the Kwai Tsing Safe Community and Healthy City Association, to submit a detailed report. Furthermore, the bureau clarified that the affected system is not connected to any other district health centres, and there has been no impact on the government’s e-health app.
Authorities Take Immediate Action
The incident has been reported to various entities, including the Police, the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data, and the Digital Policy Office. In response, the health centre has enlisted the help of a cybersecurity expert to assist in investigating the breach and mitigating any potential risks.
The Health Bureau assured the public that appropriate measures are being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future, though the rescheduling of appointments will continue until further notice. The health centre has also emphasized its commitment to safeguarding patient privacy and restoring services as soon as possible.
As the investigation continues, both local authorities and residents await further updates on the potential impact of the data breach.
Related Topics
