Ransomware Response Playbook: Should You Pay the Ransom?

Imagine arriving at work one morning to find your entire IT system locked down. A chilling message appears on every screen: "Your files are encrypted. Pay us to get them back." This isn't a scene from a movie; it's a stark reality for countless Irish SMEs. In 2023, the average cost of a ransomware attack in Ireland, excluding the ransom payment itself, was estimated to be in the hundreds of thousands of euros, highlighting the devastating impact these incidents can have.

Understanding the Ransomware Threat in Ireland

Ransomware attacks are a persistent and evolving threat, targeting organisations of all sizes. For Irish SMEs, the consequences can be severe, leading to significant financial losses, reputational damage, and even business closure. Attackers exploit system vulnerabilities, use phishing, or leverage stolen credentials to gain access. Once inside, they encrypt critical data and demand payment, usually in cryptocurrency, for its release. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) Ireland consistently warns businesses about these escalating threats and the importance of robust cybersecurity measures.

Immediate Actions During a Ransomware Attack

When a ransomware attack strikes, a calm and structured approach is crucial. Your immediate actions significantly impact the outcome. The first step in any effective ransomware response is to isolate infected systems to prevent further spread. Disconnect affected devices from the network, both wired and wireless. Do not attempt to remove the ransomware or decrypt files yourself, as this can corrupt data permanently. Focus on containment and preservation of evidence.

Key immediate steps include:

• Isolate Infected Systems: Disconnect affected devices from the network immediately.
• Activate Your incident response plan: Follow your plan, or recognise the need for one.
• Preserve Evidence: Document everything; consider a forensic image if possible.
• Notify Key Stakeholders: Inform your internal incident response team, senior management, and legal counsel.
• Contact NCSC Ireland: Report the incident for guidance and intelligence.

The Dilemma: Should You Pay the Ransom?

This is arguably the most challenging decision in a ransomware incident. There are compelling arguments on both sides, and the "right" answer often depends on your specific business circumstances, the nature of the data encrypted, and expert advice. The general consensus among law enforcement and cybersecurity agencies, including NCSC Ireland, is to not pay the ransom. This stance is primarily driven by the fact that paying encourages further criminal activity and does not guarantee data recovery.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

In Ireland, paying a ransom is not explicitly illegal, but it carries significant risks. Concerns exist around funding sanctioned entities, which could lead to legal repercussions under broader frameworks like the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010. Ethically, paying a ransom contributes to a criminal ecosystem that harms other businesses and individuals. It also sets a precedent that your organisation might be a willing payer in future attacks.

The Role of Cyber Insurance

Cyber insurance policies often cover ransomware incidents, including negotiation costs and even the ransom payment itself. However, relying solely on insurance is a risky strategy. Insurers increasingly scrutinise policyholders' cybersecurity postures and may deny claims if adequate preventative measures were not in place. Furthermore, paying the ransom through insurance can still lead to the ethical and legal dilemmas mentioned above. Understanding your policy's terms and engaging with your insurer early is crucial.

A Decision Framework for Paying the Ransom

While the official advice is not to pay, the reality for a business under attack can be complex. A structured decision-making framework can help navigate this high-stakes choice. Consider the following factors carefully with your leadership team, legal counsel, and IT/security advisors:

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What This Means for Your Business

For an Irish SME, a ransomware attack is a clear and present danger. The financial and operational disruption can be catastrophic. Relying on paying a ransom is not a strategy; it is a last resort with no guaranteed outcome. The key is to shift from a reactive to a proactive stance.

This means investing in robust, multi-layered security controls. It involves creating and regularly testing an incident response plan so your team knows exactly what to do. It also means fostering a security-aware culture where every employee understands their role in protecting the business. Guidance from the NCSC and requirements of regulations like GDPR and the upcoming NIS2 Directive all point to organisations taking ownership of their cyber risk.

Ready to Strengthen Your Security Posture?

Pragmatic Security works with Irish SMEs to build practical, proportionate cybersecurity programmes that protect your business, satisfy regulators, and give you confidence. Whether you need NIS2 compliance support, a vCISO on retainer, or a one-off security assessment, we're here to help.

Book a free 20-minute strategy call today — no jargon, no hard sell, just practical advice from an experienced Irish cybersecurity professional.

Or contact us at [email protected] or call +353 870 515 776.

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Take the Next Step

If ransomware risk and how to protect your business is something you're thinking about, the best starting point is a structured conversation.

Book a free 20-minute call with our vCISO team. We work with Irish SMEs across every sector — no jargon, no scare tactics, just clear advice on what to do next.

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