The U.K. government is considering a ban on public sector organizations from paying ransoms to hackers as part of a strategy to deter cybercriminals. This proposal comes in response to reports of 13 nationally significant ransomware attacks occurring between September 2023 and August 2024. The Clop ransomware gang has recently claimed responsibility for a mass hack involving numerous victims, although several organizations have disputed these claims. Additionally, a cyber-attack on a local council has resulted in the theft of personal data, highlighting the ongoing cybersecurity challenges faced by public bodies in the U.K. The Medusa ransomware group has also claimed an attack on Gateshead Council, further underscoring the urgency of addressing ransomware threats.