Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee
Introduced
In Committee
On Floor
Passed Chamber
Enacted
This bill requires certain entities to disclose ransom payments to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Specifically, within seven days of paying a ransom, disclosure must be made to DHS by any entity that (1) is engaged in interstate commerce, (2) is engaged in an activity affecting interstate commerce, or (3) receives federal funds. DHS must publish annually information disclosed, including the total dollar amount paid, without revealing identifying information. DHS must conduct a study to determine if there are commonalities with respect to the information disclosed and the extent to which cryptocurrency has facilitated the kinds of attacks that resulted in such payments. DHS must establish a website by December 21, 2021, through which individuals may voluntarily report the payment of a ransom by the individual.
Computers and information technologyComputer security and identity theftCongressional oversightCurrencyDigital mediaFraud offenses and financial crimesGovernment information and archivesGovernment studies and investigationsInternet and video servicesInternet, web applications, social mediaState and local government operations
A bill to require certain entities to disclose to the Secretary of Homeland Security ransom payments, and for other purposes.
USA117th CongressS-2926| Senate
| Updated: 10/4/2021
This bill requires certain entities to disclose ransom payments to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Specifically, within seven days of paying a ransom, disclosure must be made to DHS by any entity that (1) is engaged in interstate commerce, (2) is engaged in an activity affecting interstate commerce, or (3) receives federal funds. DHS must publish annually information disclosed, including the total dollar amount paid, without revealing identifying information. DHS must conduct a study to determine if there are commonalities with respect to the information disclosed and the extent to which cryptocurrency has facilitated the kinds of attacks that resulted in such payments. DHS must establish a website by December 21, 2021, through which individuals may voluntarily report the payment of a ransom by the individual.
Computers and information technologyComputer security and identity theftCongressional oversightCurrencyDigital mediaFraud offenses and financial crimesGovernment information and archivesGovernment studies and investigationsInternet and video servicesInternet, web applications, social mediaState and local government operations