Join Professor Ciaran Martin for a conversation with Dr Max Smeets about his new book, Ransom War: How Cyber Crime Became a Threat to National Security.

Ransomware – malicious software designed to block access to computer systems or data until a ransom is paid – is becoming increasingly pervasive. In addition to significant financial costs, ransomware can put lives at risk, as demonstrated most recently by the attack that disrupted healthcare services at multiple NHS hospitals across London last year. In 2022, a series of devastating ransomware attacks targeting nearly 30 public institutions in Costa Rica prompted its president to declare a national emergency, describing a ‘state of war’ in the country.

In Ransom War, Dr Smeets explores the rise of ransomware as a threat to national security. Through the lens of one of the largest ransomware operations ever recorded, he reveals how the ransomware threat has evolved, how it differs in substance and style from traditional cyber challenges, and what can be done to combat it.

The event is followed by a drinks reception.

Author biography

Max Smeets, DPhil, is a leading expert in cyber conflict and security, with writings on cyber strategy featured in The Washington Post, War on the Rocks, Slate, and other prominent outlets. He holds research positions at ETH Zurich, the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), and Stanford University’s Center for International Security and Cooperation. Max is the author of Ransom War: How Cyber Crime Became a Threat to National Security and No Shortcuts: Why States Struggle to Develop a Military Cyber Force (both published by Hurst). He is also the co-editor of Deter, Disrupt, or Deceive and Cyberspace and Instability. In addition, Max co-directs Virtual Routes and serves as Managing Editor of Binding Hook.