Cyberattack cripples Boston Scientific operations worldwide

Boston Scientific, a major U.S. medical device maker, is currently grappling with a global cyberattack that commenced on Tuesday. This cyber incident has led to significant disruptions and limitations in access to its essential IT systems and business applications. The company confirmed that its operations, including shipping and order processing, have been affected.

The full extent of the cyberattack's impact on patients who rely on Boston Scientific's implanted medical devices, such as pacemakers and defibrillators, remains unclear. The company, which serves approximately 48 million patients annually, has not provided specific guidance for patients. An ongoing investigation is underway to determine the cause and scope of the attack.

This incident follows a recent pattern of cyberattacks targeting health technology companies, including Abbott Laboratories and Medtronic. Earlier this year, Stryker, another medical device maker, was targeted by Iranian-backed hackers. Boston Scientific relies on cloud infrastructure from Microsoft and Amazon Web Services for its corporate operations.