UK Launches Bold Crackdown: Public Sector and Critical Infrastructure Banned from Paying Ransomware Demands

The UK government is introducing sweeping new regulations that will ban public sector bodies and operators of critical national infrastructure from paying ransoms to cybercriminals.

This move comes after a surge in high-profile ransomware attacks targeting essential services like the NHS, local councils, and major retailers. The new measures also require private businesses to notify authorities before making any ransom payments, aiming to disrupt the financial incentives for hackers. Officials hope these strict rules will deter cyberattacks and better protect vital public services.

The policy has received strong support from industry and is seen as one of the toughest anti-ransomware stances globally.