Justice, Homeland Security Departments launch website designed to combat ransomware

Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials said the agencies have united with federal partners to launch a new website designed to combat ransomware attacks.

StopRansomware.gov serves as a hub for ransomware resources accessible to individuals, businesses, and other organizations and represents the first joint website designed to aid private and public organizations in reducing ransomware risk.

“The Department of Justice is committed to protecting Americans from the rise in ransomware attacks that we have seen in recent years,” Attorney General Merrick B. Garland, of the Justice Department, said. “Along with our partners in and outside of government, and through our Ransomware and Digital Extortion Task Force, the Department is working to bring all our tools to bear against these threats. But we cannot do it alone. It is critical for business leaders across industries to recognize the threat, prioritize efforts to harden their systems, and work with law enforcement by reporting these attacks promptly.”

DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said that cybersecurity must become a priority for businesses and other organizations as ransomware attacks continue to rise globally.

“Cybercriminals have targeted critical infrastructure, small businesses, hospitals, police departments, schools, and more,” he said. “These attacks directly impact Americans’ daily lives and the security of our nation. I urge every organization across our country to use this new resource to learn how to protect themselves from ransomware and reduce their cybersecurity risk.”