FBI investigates virus after hospital chain forced to shut down network

WASHINGTON — The FBI is investigating after Medstar Health, which operates hospitals and clinics throughout the Baltimore-Washington area, was hit with a computer virus that could be a case of so-called “ransomware.”

Medstar Health picked up on a virus present on its computer system Monday morning, according to their Facebook page. The health care operator then took its own computer system offline.

It is not clear whether this is a case of so-called “ransomware” — when hackers demand ransom to restore system access.

Medstar says its operations have not been affected, that paper transactions are being carried out when needed and adds that there is no evidence that information has been compromised.

Medstar operates Georgetown University Hospital and Washington Hospital Center, along with dozens of clinics and facilities in the region.

Kate Ryan

As a member of the award-winning WTOP News, Kate is focused on state and local government. Her focus has always been on how decisions made in a council chamber or state house affect your house. She's also covered breaking news, education and more.

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