Biobank health data breach

A major cybersecurity incident has compromised the sensitive information of half a million participants in the UK's flagship health research project.

The stolen data, which includes genetic and lifestyle records, was advertised by multiple sellers on the dark web and Chinese e-commerce platforms.

While the government claims that names and contact details were not included, experts warn the data could be used to develop targeted biological weapons.

The UK Biobank has suspended its operations as investigators work with international agencies to trace the source of the breach and secure the remaining infrastructure.