Cyberattack on hospitals in Romania: How doctors handled the crisis

2026-07-16

In February 2024, the medical system in Romania faced a major challenge. Over 100 hospitals across the country were the target of a massive cyberattack, which completely blocked the IT platform used for managing patient data.

The attack had an immediate impact on medical activity. To prevent the security breach from spreading and to protect sensitive information, authorities issued an urgent order to disconnect all systems from the internet. This measure was necessary to stop the hackers' actions, but it created considerable logistical difficulties in healthcare facilities.

During those critical moments, medical staff were forced to return to traditional working methods. For several days, doctors and nurses used pen and paper to record patient charts, prescribe medication, and monitor treatments. This sudden change tested the healthcare system's ability to adapt.

The incident highlighted the vulnerabilities of Romania's digital infrastructure and the importance of cybersecurity in public institutions. Authorities worked intensively to restore system functionality and ensure the protection of medical data, emphasizing the need for greater investment in technology and digital protection for the future.