How could the proposed ban impact essential services in the UK?

Experts warn that the ban could turn a solvable crisis into a catastrophic one, as critical infrastructure providers may be forced to choose between breaking the law or watching essential services collapse.

What is the current state of ransomware attacks in the UK?

The UK has seen a rise in high-profile cyber attacks this year, targeting retailers, carmakers, and other critical sectors.

Home / Technology / UK's Proposed Ransomware Crackdown Sparks Fears of Service Collapse

UK's Proposed Ransomware Crackdown Sparks Fears of Service Collapse

Q: What is the UK government's proposed measure against ransomware?

The UK government plans to ban operators of critical national infrastructure from paying ransoms to hackers.

17 Nov

•

Summary

UK government plans to ban ransom payments to hackers
Experts warn this could lead to essential services collapsing
Almost 50% of hacked companies paid ransom in 2024

UK's Proposed Ransomware Crackdown Sparks Fears of Service Collapse

According to a news report from 2025-11-17T06:43:30+00:00, the UK government's plan to ban operators of critical national infrastructure from paying ransoms to hackers is facing significant pushback. Experts have warned that this measure, if enacted, is unlikely to stop cyber attacks and could instead result in essential services collapsing.

The proposed ban, announced by the Home Office last July, aims to deter cyber criminals by making it clear that any attempt to blackmail regulated companies such as hospitals, airports, and telecoms groups will not succeed. However, companies and cyber security groups have informed government officials that making ransom payments illegal would remove a valuable tool in negotiations where highly sensitive data or essential services could be compromised.