MLHU confirms they were targeted in cybersecurity incident

FILE - The door of an MLHU office is seen in this undated file photo (CTV News London)

The Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU) confirmed on Friday afternoon that they are investigating a cyber-security incident.

According to officials the incident was discovered on Thursday, and countermeasures were immediately deployed to prevent any further access - this included taking many of it’s systems offline to protect them, and as a result many software systems remain inaccessible including phone lines.

“We are working with leading cybersecurity experts to assist with containment, remediation, and a forensic investigation to determine the nature and scope of the incident,” said Emily Williams, Chief Executive Officer for the Middlesex-London Health Unit.

The incident was reported to the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario, the Ontario Ministry of Health, law enforcement, and municipal partners. Officials did not confirm what systems were at risk, or if any information was compromised.

“The investigation is in its early stages. In the event the investigation determines that any personal or personal health information has been impacted, any affected parties will be contacted accordingly. The team at MLHU is committed to protecting the information in its care and minimizing the impact of this incident on clients, community, and staff,” she added.

Officials say that they plan to issue a public update on Monday.