NHS IT provider Advanced has revealed that a recent disruption to its systems was the result of a cybersecurity incident caused by ransomware.

The company said the attack forced a number of NHS services offline, including NHS 111.

Urgent care customers using Adastra and NHS Trusts using eFinancials have also been impacted.

On Wednesday, the software supplier said that it anticipates these services would be brought back online over the next few days.

But it said for other NHS customers and Care organisations it will be necessary to maintain existing contingency plans for at least three to four more weeks

"We are working tirelessly to bring this timeline forward, and while we are hopeful to do so, we want our customers to be prepared," said the company.

Advanced is currently carrying out an investigation to determine the root cause of the incident.

"While Advanced has confirmed that the incident impacting their software is ransomware, the NHS has tried and tested contingency plans in place including robust defences to protect our own networks, as we work with the National Cyber Security Centre to fully understand the impact,” an NHS England spokesperson told media. "The public should continue to use NHS services as normal, including NHS 111 for those who are unwell, although some people will face longer waits than usual. As ever, if it is an emergency, please call 999."

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