Recommendation 23

Given the links between ransomware crime and certain state actors, it is striking how little attention has been paid to the potential for international law to target the collusion of states. In Chapter 2, our report highlights the possibility that Russia’s approach could constitute a violation of international law. Recognising that Russia shows little, if any, respect for international law, the FCDO should nevertheless investigate the possibilities for legal sanctions and international cooperation to deter state-linked ransomware crime.