US states weigh bans on ransomware payoffs

In recent months, the fallout from ransomware attacks has received widespread public attention. In May, the Colonial Pipeline shutdown sparked panic buying and gas shortages along the East Coast. — The Atlanta Journal-Constitution/TNS

As ransomware attacks continue to wreak havoc on US police departments, school districts and city and county governments, some state legislators say they’ve had enough.

At least three states – New York, North Carolina and Pennsylvania – are considering legislation that would ban state and local government agencies from paying ransom if they’re attacked by cybercriminals. A similar bill in Texas died in committee earlier this year.