Is it illegal to pay ransomware victims?

Victims of ransomware attacks who feel compelled to pay cybercriminals often wonder if it is illegal to do so. There is no law against paying ransom when an organization’s data and/or systems are taken hostage.

Why has my transaction been declined or declined?

There is an issue with merchant's account or the ID. Or the Access Code used is incorrect. The customer should contact their bank and use an alternate payment card. The customer should use an alternate payment card. The customer’s bank (Card Issuer) has declined the transaction as payment card has expired or the date is incorrect.

Why do ransomware gangs stop making money?

The third reason for the decline in ransom payments is down to a self-fulfilling cycle; as fewer victims pay the ransoms, it becomes harder for ransomware gangs to make money, meaning that some groups are forced to cease operations because it just isn't worth the time or effort if they're not making a return.

How much did ransom payments drop in 2022?

Analysis by cryptocurrency and blockchain company Chainanalysis suggests that ransom payments dropped by 40% last year, declining from $765.6 million in 2021 to $456.8 million in 2022. The best VPN services: How do the top 5 compare?