17 June 2024 - ransomware

Ransomware is the big cybercrime. Victims imagine that it is morally OK to promote harm to others by paying ransom, because who can you trust if not criminals? We tax other unwanted behaviors that are hard to eradicate, so I propose a tax on ransom. Bans or reporting requirements will be evaded, but a tax brings in independent enforcement mechanisms and stands a chance. Just make sure that the auditors are strict and the ransomware insurance business is honest.