While ransomware is a persistent and ever-expanding menace well-known to the cyber insurance industry, the series of recent high-profile attacks is causing the federal government to treat ransomware as an urgent national security issue requiring increased cooperation between private and public sectors.

On June 2nd, the White House issued a memorandum to corporate executive and business leaders, urging them to take a number of precautions to prevent ransomware and protect their companies’ assets. The next day, Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco issued a memorandum to federal prosecutors outlining guidance for investigating ransomware and digital extortion issues.