UK Launches Tough Ransomware Ban: Public Sector and Critical Infrastructure Forbidden from Paying Hackers

The UK government is introducing strict new measures to combat the growing threat of ransomware attacks, including a ban on public sector bodies and critical national infrastructure from paying ransoms to cybercriminals.

The new rules will also require private businesses to notify authorities before making any ransom payments, aiming to increase transparency and enable targeted law enforcement action. These steps come after a series of high-profile cyberattacks on major UK organizations, including hospitals and retailers. Officials say the measures are designed to deter hackers by removing the financial incentive and to better protect essential services.

While some experts question the effectiveness and potential unintended consequences, the government insists this bold approach is necessary to strengthen national cybersecurity.