Incoming U.S. cryptocurrency sanctions will combat ransomware attacks, says report
The continuing crypto conundrum grows crazier.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
What you need to know
As more and more people dive into the world of cryptocurrencies and educate themselves onhow to mine crypto, the number of bad actors using that knowledge for illegal purposes grows as well. Such growth in the cryptocurrency sector, especially when it comes to the format’s appeal to ransomware attackers, has attracted the attention of the U.S. government.
According to a report byThe Wall Street Journal, the Treasury Department will soon impose sanctions of some sort against cryptocurrencies, as well as provide new guidance to businesses regarding ransomware payouts. These developments could happen as soon as next week, says the report.
It’s noted that the sanctions aren’t expected to go after crypto infrastructure as a whole, but rather specific elements thatfacilitate effective ransomware attacks. In other words, if you’re reading this and are worried that investing in thebest GPUs for crypto miningmay be a bad idea, consider that it could be too soon to tell either way.
In terms of recent news that presents positive aspects of acquiring cryptocurrency, more and more businesses are opening their virtual cash registers to crypto, now includingAMC Theatres. AMC said it will start accepting crypto for ticket and concession stand purchases by year’s end, meaning you’ll soon be able to pay for popcorn, soda, and movies via Bitcoin, Litecoin,Ethereum, and Bitcoin Cash.
Get the Windows Central Newsletter
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
Robert Carnevale is the News Editor for Windows Central. He’s a big fan of Kinect (it lives on in his heart), Sonic the Hedgehog, and the legendary intersection of those two titans, Sonic Free Riders. He is the author ofCold War 2395. Have a useful tip? Send it to robert.carnevale@futurenet.com.