Eamon Ryan: Hackers accessed HSE IT system some time before attack noticed

Communications Minister Eamon Ryan said it is 'likely' that the hackers got into the system before last Friday as such attacks are prepared in great detail long in advance.

Criminal hackers gained access to the HSE IT system some time before the cyberattack was noticed, Communications Minister Eamon Ryan has confirmed.

Mr Ryan told the Dáil it is "likely" that the hackers got into the system before last Friday as such attacks are prepared in great detail long in advance and often require significant periods of time for the criminals to gain access and gather information before alerting authorities.