technology

If you pay a hacker’s ransom, chances are that they’ll come back for more

TechCrunch·July 22, 2026

Security researchers and network defenders believe that paying a hacker's ransom does not guarantee a resolution, as it creates no incentive for the hacker to stop demanding more. Paying the ransom may even encourage hackers to return for further extortion. Hackers have no motivation to cease their demands, as they can continue to exploit vulnerable systems for financial gain. This understanding suggests that negotiating with hackers is often a futile effort.

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