
# Post 1: Ransomware – To Pay or Not to Pay? A Critical Decision in the Boardroom
ransomware, cyber extortion, double extortion, data breach, incident response, business continuity, cybersecurity strategy, regulatory compliance, cyber resilience, ransomware payment ethics
Ransomware has become one of the most significant cybersecurity threats, with attackers using sophisticated double extortion tactics — encrypting files while also threatening a data breach if demands are not met. Executives must weigh whether paying ransom supports business continuity or fuels further cyber extortion. Payment offers no guarantee of full data restoration, introduces regulatory compliance risks, and can harm a company’s cyber resilience. Industry experts advocate robust incident response plans, segmented backups, and ongoing cybersecurity strategy to reduce the likelihood of such crises. Ultimately, organizations that prepare in advance can make ethical, lawful, and sustainable decisions when confronted with a ransomware attack.