No More Ransoms: UK Draws Line Against Cyber Extortion

The UK is putting ransomware gangs on notice—public sector bodies and critical infrastructure operators will soon be barred from paying their demands.

Under new proposals released Tuesday, hospitals, energy providers, and local councils will join government departments in facing a strict no-payment rule. Businesses outside the ban must still report ransom plans, while victims have 72 hours to alert authorities.

“We’re determined to smash the cybercriminal business model,” declared Security Minister Dan Jarvis, signaling a tougher stance against digital extortion.