Instant action by Urology Austin Prevents ransomware attack

The hackers implemented a ransomware attack on Urology Austin, a specialty provider that operates thirteen sites serving Round Rock and Austin. While the attack was prevented and Urology Austin regained access to its systems, it couldn’t be evaluated whether patient data was accessed by the hackers. As an outcome, the agency is offering a year of credit and identity protection services to 279,663 sufferers.

The attack occurred on the day of January 22. In an informational notice issued to the media, the practice claimed that it was aware of the attack within minutes, shut down the network and started data and operational restoration.

The practice told the regional NBC television affiliate that no ransom was paid to regain information. Compromised data involved patients’ names, addresses, dates of birth, Social Security numbers and medical information.

Notification letters have been sent to sufferers, giving them detailed information on steps to take to secure personal information.

“We take the security of our sufferers’ information very crucially and we’ve taken measures to stop a similar event from occurring in the future, involving strengthening our security measures and making sure that our networks and systems are now secure,” in accordance to a statement from the practice. “The privacy and protection of patient data is a top priority, and we strongly regret any inconvenience or concern this tragedy may cause.”

A spokesperson for Urology Austin didn’t respond to queries for further information.