RANSOMWARE Act

3/8/2023, 8:11 PM

Reporting Attacks from Nations Selected for Oversight and Monitoring Web Attacks and Ransomware from Enemies Act or the RANSOMWARE Act

This bill requires the Federal Trade Commission to report on cross-border complaints received that involve ransomware or other cyber-related attacks committed by certain foreign individuals, companies, and governments. The report must focus specifically on attacks committed by (1) Russia, China, North Korea, or Iran; or (2) individuals or companies that are located in or have ties to those countries.

The RANSOMWARE Act, also known as Bill 117 hr 4551, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress aimed at addressing the growing threat of ransomware attacks. Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts a user's files and demands payment in exchange for the decryption key.

The RANSOMWARE Act seeks to combat these attacks by increasing penalties for those who engage in ransomware activities. It also aims to improve coordination between federal agencies, law enforcement, and private sector entities to better respond to and prevent ransomware attacks.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions to enhance cybersecurity measures for critical infrastructure, such as power grids, water systems, and transportation networks. It also calls for increased resources and training for law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute ransomware attacks. Overall, the RANSOMWARE Act is a comprehensive piece of legislation designed to strengthen the nation's defenses against ransomware attacks and protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats.
Congress
117

Number
HR - 4551

Introduced on
2021-07-20

# Amendments
0

Sponsors
+5

Cosponsors
+5

Variations and Revisions

7/28/2022

Status of Legislation

Bill Introduced
Introduced to House
Passed in House
Introduced to Senate
Senate to Vote

Purpose and Summary

Reporting Attacks from Nations Selected for Oversight and Monitoring Web Attacks and Ransomware from Enemies Act or the RANSOMWARE Act

This bill requires the Federal Trade Commission to report on cross-border complaints received that involve ransomware or other cyber-related attacks committed by certain foreign individuals, companies, and governments. The report must focus specifically on attacks committed by (1) Russia, China, North Korea, or Iran; or (2) individuals or companies that are located in or have ties to those countries.

The RANSOMWARE Act, also known as Bill 117 hr 4551, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress aimed at addressing the growing threat of ransomware attacks. Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts a user's files and demands payment in exchange for the decryption key.

The RANSOMWARE Act seeks to combat these attacks by increasing penalties for those who engage in ransomware activities. It also aims to improve coordination between federal agencies, law enforcement, and private sector entities to better respond to and prevent ransomware attacks.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions to enhance cybersecurity measures for critical infrastructure, such as power grids, water systems, and transportation networks. It also calls for increased resources and training for law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute ransomware attacks. Overall, the RANSOMWARE Act is a comprehensive piece of legislation designed to strengthen the nation's defenses against ransomware attacks and protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats.
Alternative Names
Official Title as IntroducedTo amend the U.S. SAFE WEB Act of 2006 to provide for reporting with respect to cross-border complaints involving ransomware or other cyber-related attacks, and for other purposes.

Policy Areas
Science, Technology, Communications

Potential Impact
Asia•
China•
Computer security and identity theft•
Congressional oversight•
Europe•
Foreign and international corporations•
International organizations and cooperation•
Internet, web applications, social media•
Iran•
Law enforcement administration and funding•
Middle East•
North Korea•
Russia

Comments

Recent Activity

Latest Summary8/1/2022

Reporting Attacks from Nations Selected for Oversight and Monitoring Web Attacks and Ransomware from Enemies Act or the RANSOMWARE Act

This bill requires the Federal Trade Commission to report on cross-border complaints received tha...


Latest Action7/28/2022
Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.