Diagnostics giant Synlab Italia shuts entire network following a ransomware attack

German diagnostics centre Synlab Italia said it experienced a data security incident that forced it to take its entire IT infrastructure offline and suspend laboratory services.

The Munich-based diagnostics service and specialty testing centre said in an announcement that on April 18, it identified a ransomware attack targeting its internal network. Immediately after identifying the attack, the company took its entire network offline and disconnected all machines to contain the spread of the malware.

Synlab also launched an investigation to understand the scope of the incident and determine whether any sensitive personal data of individuals was compromised during the security incident. Also, it is in the process of restoring its affected systems and has implemented measures to resume operations as soon as possible.

“A complaint has already been filed with the Postal Police and the preliminary notification procedure has been initiated to the Guarantor Authority for the Protection of Personal Data,” the company said.

As a result of the ransomware attack, Synlab has suspended all laboratory analysis and sample collection services until further notice. Samples that have already been collected but not analysed have been stored in a secure low temperature facility until testing services are resumed.

In a separate update, Synlab said, “We invite you to store, while awaiting sending to SYNLAB, only and exclusively blood material that can be appropriately separated and frozen in the meantime. We strongly advise against the storage of perishable materials such as urine and whole blood.”

The company has commissioned multiple alternative phone numbers where customers can call and get their queries resolved till the lab restores its affected systems and email channel.