Ransomware Taskforce

The Ransomware Taskforce, of the Institute for Science and Technology, released its 81 page report this week with recommendations on countering the scourge of ransomware.

What made the Taskforce — and its subsequent recommendations — interesting is that its members came not just from the technology world, but various sectors including the insurance industry, non-profits and government. Its recommendations go beyond technology advice and urge governments to be more involved in things like cracking down on countries known to harbor ransomware crime networks. It also suggests better reporting and cooperation so the scope of the problem is more clearly known.

Underlying these suggestions for government responses is the idea that ransomware attacks are becoming a national security issue.

Interestingly, the report stresses the importance of trying to convince victims not to pay. Although it does not suggest making such payments illegal.