FBI Softens Stance On Ransomware: It's (Sort Of) Okay To Pay Off Crims To Get Your Data Back
Arthur T Knackerbracket has found the following story:
The FBI is easing up a bit on its hardline stance against paying ransomware demands.
The Bureau has posted an updated version of the guidance it offers for companies on how to handle ransomware demands with a section discussing the option of paying the hackers to get data decrypted.
In short, the FBI still says that companies should not cave to hacker demands and pay to have their data unlocked, but the bureau acknowledges that paying is an option.
"Paying ransoms emboldens criminals to target other organizations and provides an alluring and lucrative enterprise to other criminals," the FBI's guidance reads.
"However, the FBI understands that when businesses are faced with an inability to function, executives will evaluate all options to protect their shareholders, employees, and customers."
[...] In other words; it's not advisable to pay ransomware demands, but you won't get in any trouble if you do.
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