I wonder if it's kind of a "it's small fry, and these businesses are getting their data back, we'll turn our backs to it unless it's actual violent terrorists receiving ransom money" sort of thing.
Middleman: OK, hand us the encrypted data and 125% of whatever the ransomeware is asking.
Middleman: Outcome A: Here's your data back. Outcome B: We were unable to get your data back, here's your full refund.
It takes legwork to establish intent, which is why justice is never carried out very quickly.
No.
> I wonder if it's kind of a "it's small fry, and these businesses are getting their data back, we'll turn our backs to it unless it's actual violent terrorists receiving ransom money" sort of thing.
1. It's difficult to believe that organized crime isn't involved in at least some ransomware schemes.
2. Is it illegal to pay protection money?