OUTSIDE VIEW
Stopping cyberattacks for ransom is not going to be easy - or quick
The scalability of the internet can be a virtue. But it also makes it easier for vices to proliferate
The latest cyberattack, apparently emanating from Russia again, has hit at least 20 software firms, affecting at least 1,000 businesses. It follows a cyberattack that left parts of the US without adequate fuel supplies for several days, and one on the Irish public health system. There are undoubtedly many more attacks that go unreported, if only because the victims do not wish to advertise their willingness to pay a ransom. And so the obvious question arises: how is all this supposed to stop? For an answer, it's useful to apply some game theory.
The scalability of the internet can be a virtue. But it also makes it easier for vices to proliferate. There are now the equivalent of venture capital markets to help fund ransomware attacks...
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