The UK government’s latest ransomware proposals aim to shield businesses and public services from ransomware attacks that cost the economy billions annually. These proposed new measures aim to target the financial lifelines of cybercriminals by banning ransomware payments from public sector bodies and critical national infrastructure organisations, such as the NHS, local councils, and schools. The government’s approach also includes mandatory ransomware incident reporting to bolster law enforcement’s ability to disrupt criminal networks.

With ransomware still posing the most disruptive threat to the UK’s essential services—often carried out by highly sophisticated gangs affiliated with state actors—businesses must prepare for a landscape shaped by stricter regulations and increased expectations for cyber resilience.

Cyber incident management

Security Minister Dan Jarvis described the measures as crucial to the government's Plan for Change, which prioritises economic stability, public safety, and national security. The message is clear: by disrupting the financial incentives that fuel cybercrime, the government aims to make the UK a harder target for ransomware gangs. The proposed changes will require organisations to carefully reassess their approach to cyber incident management.

High-profile cases such as the attack on Royal Mail and a key supplier to London hospitals have highlighted the huge damage and disruption ransomware can cause. For businesses and public organisations alike, navigating these rules means having clear strategies that align with regulatory requirements and ensure operational continuity.

Key actions organisations should take

1. Understand the full scope of regulations and reporting requirements
   The proposed ban extends beyond government departments, impacting all public sector bodies and critical infrastructure. Coupled with the mandatory reporting of ransomware incidents, these changes increase accountability.
2. Position your organisation to adapt and strengthen trust
   A proactive stance demonstrates resilience and reassures stakeholders. By developing transparent response plans and regularly communicating risk mitigation efforts, organisations can build trust. Integrity360 works with leadership teams to align strategies with changing regulations, ensuring stakeholder confidence during crises.
3. Identify legitimate recovery options
   Even if payments are off the table, organisations are not without options. Secure data backups, network segmentation, and tested disaster recovery plans enable businesses to recover without engaging ransom demands. Integrity360’s experts design recovery strategies that prioritise system integrity and business continuity.
4. Access to on-demand cyber expertise
   During a ransomware incident, decisions must be swift and compliant with legal guidance. Our incident response team offers 24/7 support, providing real-time advice on engaging law enforcement and navigating regulatory constraints.
5. Build company-wide awareness and readiness
   Ransomware defence isn’t just an IT responsibility—it’s an organisation-wide priority. From staff training on phishing and early threat detection to C-suite briefings on regulatory compliance, Integrity360’s training programmes ensure everyone understands their role.

The EU’s position

The current proposed position of the EU Parliament is to maintain a strong stance against the payment of cyber ransoms. The EU continues to emphasize that paying ransoms only fuels the ransomware business model and encourages further attacks. The Cyber Solidarity Act and other recent initiatives reflect the EU's commitment to enhancing its cybersecurity resilience and deterring ransomware attacks.

1. No Payment Policy: The EU strongly discourages the payment of ransoms, as it perpetuates the threat and does not guarantee the return of data or the removal of malware.
2. Cyber Sanctions: The EU will continue to use its cyber sanctions regime to target individuals and entities involved in ransomware attacks.
3. International Cooperation: The EU is committed to working with international partners to enhance global resilience against ransomware and disrupt criminal operations.
4. Support for Victims: The EU provides guidance and support for organisations affected by ransomware, emphasizing the importance of reporting incidents and not paying ransoms.

How Integrity360’s expertise supports resilience

Integrity360’s holistic approach empowers organisations to adapt to this evolving regulatory landscape with confidence:

• Threat detection and incident response: Our advanced solutions detect ransomware attempts early and enable rapid, compliant responses.
• Compliance-driven planning: We provide clear, customised compliance roadmaps that align with new regulations.
• Recovery-focused incident management: Our recovery plans prioritise operational continuity without resorting to ransom payments.
• Managed security services: From vulnerability assessments to round-the-clock monitoring, our services bolster your defences against sophisticated attacks.
• Tailored training programmes: Our sessions enhance awareness and prepare teams to respond effectively to ransomware incidents.

By partnering with Integrity360, your organisation gains access to the expertise needed to navigate new regulations and build long-term resilience. Whether you’re a public sector body facing stricter reporting obligations or a private enterprise seeking stronger defences, Integrity360 helps you transform regulatory challenges into a foundation for greater security.

In the fight against ransomware, preparation is key. Let Integrity360 be your trusted guide, ensuring you remain compliant, secure, and resilient against evolving cyber threats.