Is paying ransom illegal?
Is it legal to pay ransom in the context of cryptocurrency and finance? Many individuals and organizations have faced the difficult decision of whether to pay a ransom to hackers who have compromised their digital assets. On one hand, the payment could potentially result in the restoration of access to valuable data or funds. On the other hand, paying the ransom may encourage further criminal activity and potentially violate laws related to money laundering or supporting terrorist organizations. As a professional in this field, I am curious to understand the nuances of this issue and how it is addressed in various jurisdictions.
How much crypto ransom was paid out in 2020?
In recent years, the issue of crypto ransomware attacks has become increasingly prevalent, posing a significant threat to both individuals and businesses. Given the anonymity and borderless nature of cryptocurrencies, it's been difficult to track the exact amount of ransom paid out. However, could you elaborate on the scale of this issue? Specifically, how much crypto ransom was reportedly paid out globally in 2020? Were there any significant trends or patterns in the types of attacks or the amounts demanded? Understanding the financial implications of these attacks is crucial in devising effective countermeasures and preventative strategies.