A cyberattack has disrupted operations at Hampton Regional Medical Center in Varnville, South Carolina, prompting an urgent investigation and widespread concerns about data privacy. Hospital officials confirmed Thursday that staff have lost access to patient medical records following the incident, which occurred earlier this week. The facility serves much of Hampton County and is working to determine the scope and cause of the breach.
In a notice posted to its website, the medical center stated that it is “responding swiftly and thoroughly to investigate and address the situation.” Officials have not disclosed whether the attack involved ransomware or if any patient data was compromised. Community members expressed concern to local news outlet WTOC, fearing their personal health information may have been exposed. The hospital has declined to comment beyond its public statement.
