Barton Health takes precautions after cyber-attack hits 99 countries

A massive global cyber-attack using hacking tools believed to be developed by the U.S. National Security Agency has affected 99 countries across the globe and disrupted Britain's healthcare system.

Even though far away, Barton Health is taking precautions to protect their computer systems and because of this their phone system is currently limited in operations. They are asking anyone who needs to call a Barton Health patient office or department, to call the direct hospital line at 530.541.3420. Other direct lines may be available, but calls will not be transferred from other lines.

"Thank you for your patience," said a Barton Health press release. "We anticipate this precaution will be implemented at least through the weekend."

Cyber extortionists tricked computer users to open ransom-ware in spam emails that appeared to be invoices, offers of jobs, security warnings and other apparently legitimate files. Not only were Britain's hospitals affected to the point of canceling surgeries, FedEx was also disrupted.