> I don't think that it is illegal to pay a ransom in general under US law. I me... | Hacker News

Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submit

Alex3917 on July 27, 2020 | parent | context | favorite | on: Garmin obtains decryption key after ransomware att...

> I don't think that it is illegal to pay a ransom in general under US law.

I mean I’m pretty sure you’re not allowed to go wire money to Al Qaeda, or to conspire to evade anti money laundering controls in order to do so.

mytailorisrich on July 28, 2020 [–]

That's why I wrote 'in general' and that there were caveats related to terrorism.

Money laundering is another issue. In general I think people are still free to spend their legitimate money (it's not money laundering to begin with).

Consider applying for YC's Fall 2026 batch! Applications are open till July 27.
Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact