Official Text
“Whoever creates, distributes, or uses ransomware or similar malicious software to extort money or data from individuals or organizations.”
Legal Analysis
Elements to Prove:
- Creating, distributing, or using ransomware.
- With intent to extort.
- Money or data as target.
Potential Defenses:
- No ransomware creation.
- Legitimate software development.
- Authorized testing.
Practical Examples
What Constitutes the Offense:
Creating ransomware, distributing malicious software, using malware for extortion.
What Doesn't Constitute:
Legitimate software development, authorized testing, or lawful cybersecurity activities.
Punishment
Imprisonment up to 10 years, and Fine