A ransomware attack has disrupted operations across a major U.S. hospital network, affecting care at several facilities and forcing staff to work through system outages. The incident underscores the growing threat cyberattacks pose to critical health infrastructure.

According to the initial reporting, the attackers demanded payment in cryptocurrency, a common tactic in ransomware campaigns that seek to lock access to data or systems until a ransom is paid. Hospitals are among the most sensitive targets because even brief disruptions can affect patient care, scheduling, and emergency response.

Officials have not publicly detailed the full scope of the breach or identified who was behind the attack. It is also not yet clear whether patient records were accessed or if any systems have been restored. Investigators are working to assess the damage and contain the disruption.

The attack adds to a long-running wave of cybercrime targeting healthcare providers, which have faced repeated pressure to strengthen defenses while continuing to deliver essential services. For patients and staff, the immediate priority remains restoring safe, reliable access to medical systems.