Countries said they would “lead by example” by paying ransomware (PA) demands
Countries said they would “lead by example” by paying ransomware (PA) demands
A joint from the Counter Ransomware Initiative (CRI) said countries would “lead by example” by not paying for ransomware requests and “strongly deter anyone” from doing so.
The U. K. ‘s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has pleaded with businesses and Americans to never pay ransomware claims, and the government has long had a policy of not doing so.
The agreement has also been signed by countries such as the United States, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan and South Korea, as well as Interpol.
Security Minister Tom Tugendhat said the deal would set a new “global standard”.
“Crime doesn’t pay. That’s why the UK and its allies are pretending to be leadership in cybersecurity by pledging not to pay criminals when they try to extort taxpayers with ransomware,” he said.
“This commitment is a vital step in our efforts to dismantle highly organized and complicated cybercriminals, and sets a new global popular that will disrupt their business models and deter them from attacking our country. “
Ransomware is a form of malware used by cybercriminals that encrypts or steals data when they gain access to a computer system.
The victim is then asked to make a significant payment (in cryptocurrency, which is more complicated to guess) in order to get their files back.
However, cybersecurity experts, along with those at the NCSC, argue that paying fees only benefits criminals, as it encourages them to continue committing crimes and does not guarantee disclosure of applicable knowledge, a position that the IRC has now publicly supported as a component. of the report. agreement.
Felicity Oswald, Chief Operating Officer at the NCSC, said: “Ransomware is a significant risk to organisations in the UK and around the world, so overseas collaboration is to combat cybercriminal operations.
“Today’s set shows that the UK and a network of like-minded countries are not helping to pay online criminals, as we know it only worsens the risk landscape for everyone.
“Many ransomware incidents can be prevented by making sure the right security measures are in place. We strongly encourage organizations to follow the NCSC’s recommendations to mitigate hazards well and provide online assistance.
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