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UK bans ransom payments to hackers

British institutions must now report all ransomware incidents and cannot pay ransoms.

July 22, 2025 at 01:18 PM

British institutions to be banned from paying ransoms to Russian hackers

New regulations aim to combat ransomware attacks on British institutions amid rising cyber threats.

British institutions face new rules against ransom payments to hackers

The UK government has introduced new measures banning institutions from paying ransoms to Russian hackers. This decision follows a series of high-profile cyber attacks, including incidents targeting the British Library and luxury retailer Harrods. Security Minister Dan Jarvis stated that the plan will enhance intelligence efforts to disrupt criminal networks and protect the economy. Alongside the ban, institutions must report all ransomware incidents, reflecting a growing concern about escalating cyber threats in the UK.

Key Takeaways

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UK institutions will be banned from paying ransoms to hackers.

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Mandatory reporting of ransomware incidents is now required.

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The ban aims to disrupt criminal networks and protect the economy.

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The British Library faced a cyber attack but did not pay the ransom.

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Cyber attacks are on the rise, affecting various sectors including retail.

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Government plans to reduce bureaucracy while improving defenses.

"The government's ransomware plan will provide vital intelligence to expose, detect and disrupt these criminal networks."

Security Minister Dan Jarvis emphasizes the importance of intelligence in combating cybercrime.

"The British Library had its technology infrastructure destroyed by the attack."

Rebecca Lawrence highlights the severe impact of cyber attacks on significant institutions.

The new regulations highlight a shift in the UK's approach to cybersecurity, aiming to undermine the financial structures that make ransomware attacks profitable. By enforcing mandatory reporting and banning ransom payments, the government seeks not just to deter hackers, but to encourage greater transparency and cooperation among institutions. However, the impact of these measures on institutions already strained by cyber attacks remains to be seen. The government’s attempt to balance increasing security without stifling innovation presents a significant challenge.