Head of HSE not surprised by hackers' threat to publish patient data

The Head of the HSE says it's not unexpected that the hackers would threaten to publish sensitive patient data.

The government says no direct request for a ransom has been made despite a report that the criminals threatened to publish the data on Monday if they don't get 20 million dollars.

The HSE says it can't confirm the threat as it has no direct engagement with the hackers. It still hasn't been identified how they gained access to the health services network. HSE CEO Paul Reid says the process may take another week.