Boston, Oct 29 (AP) The FBI and two federal agencies say cyber criminals are unleashing a major ransomware assault against the US healthcare system.

Independent security experts say it has already hobbled at least four US hospitals this month, and could potentially impact hundreds more.

Also Read | COVID-19 Vaccine Update: Infections Reported Among Sputnik V Trial Volunteers.

In a joint alert, the FBI and two federal agencies say they have credible information of an imminent cybercrime threat to US hospitals and healthcare providers.

They say malicious groups are targeting the sector with ransomware that could lead to data theft and disruption of healthcare services.

Also Read | Germany Imposes 4-Week Lockdown From Monday; Restaurants, Bars, Theatres Closed Till November-End.

The attacks do not appear to have any connection to the US presidential election.(AP)

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)