US Cybersecurity Advisor Urges Ban on Ransom Payments to Combat Growing Ransomware Threat
October 22, 2024Ransomware has emerged as an existential threat to the United States, prompting government leaders to seek effective solutions.
Although there are practical plans available that could effectively combat ransomware, security and insurance companies may resist changes that threaten their profitability.
One proposed solution is to outlaw digital extortion payments, which could alleviate the financial burdens on victims and target the root cause of ransomware by removing the attackers' financial motivation.
In response to this growing crisis, a top U.S. national cybersecurity advisor has called for an end to the practice of paying ransoms, highlighting the need for innovative strategies.
To further disrupt ransomware operations, there are suggestions to prevent cyber insurance companies from reimbursing ransom payments.
Insurance is increasingly viewed as a method to transfer risk rather than a means to reduce attacks, and paying ransoms is believed to encourage further incidents.
Digital extortion tactics are being exploited more frequently by international adversaries, while traditional security measures are failing to keep pace with this evolving threat.
Current security measures are often costly and ineffective, as attackers can quickly adapt, resulting in a cycle of increased spending for potential victims.
Despite the rise in ransomware attacks, cybersecurity and insurance companies have profited, yet their solutions have not effectively reduced the issue.
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Security Boulevard • Oct 21, 2024
Are Leaders Ready to Break the Ransomware Cycle