In June 2024, a devastating ransomware attack targeted Synnovis, a critical provider of lab services to the UK's National Health Service (NHS). The attack, attributed to the Russian ransomware group Qilin, caused massive disruptions across major London hospitals.

Widespread Disruption and Data Theft

The incident affected multiple NHS trusts, leading to the cancellation of thousands of medical appointments and critical operations. The attackers exfiltrated approximately 400 GB of sensitive patient data, escalating the crisis from operational disruption to a major data breach. With lab services crippled, medical staff were forced to revert to manual processes, causing significant delays in patient care.

Financial Fallout

The financial impact of the attack was severe, with initial cost estimates reaching £32.7 million (around $42 million). This figure is particularly stark when compared to the provider's recent profits, highlighting the disproportionate damage a single cyberattack can inflict on an organization's financial stability and its ability to serve the public.