The Ransom Dilemma: Why Paying Hackers Isn’t Just a Technical Choice

Cyberattacks are getting smarter and more damaging. The Colonial Pipeline attack showed just how far ransomware can reach — not just into business systems, but into the backbone of daily life. When a company gets hit, the ransom demand feels like a simple fix

The fallout from a ransomware attack goes far beyond the money demanded. There’s lost work, cleanup costs, legal trouble, and damage to reputation. And in many cases, attackers don’t just take data — they steal it and sell it. That means even well-protected companies are at risk. When a group like DarkSide strikes, it’s not just a technical breach. It’s a sign that the system is broken somewhere, from the network to the people who manage it.

How to Think About Ransom Payments

• Virtue ethics says don’t pay because it reflects a lack of integrity — treating criminals like customers undermines your values.
• Deontological ethics argues that no matter what, you shouldn’t reward illegal behavior, even if it means downtime.
• Consequentialism looks at the outcome: paying might fix things fast, but it could lead to more attacks down the line.

The U.S. Treasury has warned companies against paying ransoms, saying it supports criminal activity and might break financial rules. Some states now have laws that punish people who negotiate or pay ransoms. These rules aren’t just about legality — they’re about setting boundaries on how we respond to cybercrime.

Instead of paying, organizations should start with solid backups and clear incident plans. When an attack happens, teams should act fast to restore systems and report to law enforcement. That helps track attackers and sometimes recover stolen funds. The best defense isn’t just reacting — it’s building a culture where security is part of everyday work. Strong networks, regular training, and honest communication go a long way in stopping attacks before they happen.

Real resilience comes not from paying hackers, but from knowing how to keep your systems safe — and how to act when they’re not.