William Eichler 14 January 2025

Councils to be banned from making ransomware payments

Councils to be banned from making ransomware payments image
Image: janews / Shutterstock.com.

Local authorities could be banned from making ransomware payments as part of the Government’s plans to crack down on cybercrime.

The Home Office is consulting on the proposals as part of the effort to deter criminal gangs from targeting public bodies, such as councils, schools and the NHS.

The effort to tackle hackers could also include a proposal to make reporting of attacks mandatory.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis said: ‘With an estimated $1bn flowing to ransomware criminals globally in 2023, it is vital we act to protect national security as a key foundation upon which this Government’s Plan for Change is built.

‘These proposals help us meet the scale of the ransomware threat, hitting these criminal networks in their wallets and cutting off the key financial pipeline they rely upon to operate.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Chief Executive

Westmorland and Furness Council
£188,227
Join us on our journey Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Director, Local Government Reform and Devolution

Essex County Council
Up to £150,612pa
Shape the Future of Essex Chelmsford, Essex/Remots
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Senior bridge Engineer - WMF2212e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£47,181 - £48,226
You will be the key responsible engineer for this area and will also provide technical advice and guidance to our team Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Lead Approved Mental Health Professional - WMF2213e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£56,883 - £59,198
Are you a passionate, experienced Approved Mental Health Professional Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council
Linkedin Banner