Update: It’s Time To Stop Ransomware Shaming!

The article recounts a ransomware attack on Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center that locked staff out of critical systems for ten days and prompted a 40 BTC (~$17,000) ransom payment. It argues that blaming victims is misguided because infections often result from sophisticated exploit kits and malvertising beyond simple user error, outlines mitigation measures (regular off-site backups, least-privilege access), and explains why paying a modest ransom can be a rational, cost-effective response while warning that payment may attract follow-on attacks.