KFL&A Public Health provides update on cyber security issues
KFL&A Public Health (KFLAPH) has resolved the threat to its information technology (IT) systems after experiencing a cyber security incident on the morning of Friday, Jun. 25, 2021, that blocked access to the agency’s servers.
“As a precautionary measure, the agency’s IT team immediately took all systems offline and began an investigation,” said Linda Murray, Chief Executive Officer at KFL&A Public Health. “It was determined the issue was the result of a cyber security incident. We retained leading experts to assist our IT team to bring systems back online in a secure manner, and to assist with the overall investigation.”
According to a release from the agency, KFL&A Public Health’s main priority has been to ensure all computers are cleaned and to prevent any impact on the agency’s information, including personal health information. No data threatened by the attack was accessed, shared, or corrupted and this includes personal health information. OPP are handling the forensic investigation at this time, and KFLAPH said they are cooperating fully with the OPP in their investigation.
“Our IT team and experts are working around the clock to ensure a prompt and secure restoration of all systems and to minimize any disruption to the agency’s programs and services,” added Murray. “We apologize for any inconvenience this incident has resulted in.”
Many applications were not impacted, including all operations related to their COVID-19 response. Public Health continues to fully operate and provide all services, including vaccine clinics, contact and case management, call centre, vaccine appointment booking centre, and environmental health and infection prevention, according to the release.
The agency’s branch offices in Cloyne and Sharbot Lake will resume modified COVID-19 operation hours as of the week of July 12. The branch offices in Cloyne will be open on Mondays and in Sharbot Lake will be open on Tuesdays. To submit water samples on another day of the week, please take them to the Napanee or Kingston office (Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).
For more information on KFL&A Public Health programs and services, including COVID-19 and vaccination clinics, visit www.kflaph.ca