Why are there still ransomware attacks against companies and governments? If companies and governments have large servers and back-ups, why do they pay money and allow to be blackmailed, instead of just recovering their files from the back-ups?

Some companies and governments may choose to pay ransomware attackers instead of restoring files from backups due to several reasons:

1. Data Sensitivity: The data encrypted by the ransomware may be extremely sensitive or critical, and the organization cannot risk the information being exposed or leaked.

2. Cost Consideration: Restoring files from backups can be a time-consuming and expensive process, especially if the backups are not up-to-date or comprehensive. In some cases, paying the ransom may seem like a quicker and cheaper option.

3. Uncertainty of Restoration: There is a risk that even after restoring files from backups, the system may still be vulnerable or compromised. Paying the ransom may seem like a more assured way to regain access to the data.

4. Negotiation: Some organizations may attempt to negotiate the ransom amount and terms with the attackers, hoping to mitigate the impact and cost of the attack.

5. Insurance Coverage: In some cases, organizations may have cybersecurity insurance that covers ransom payments, making it a more viable option compared to the potential losses from extended downtime or data loss.

It’s important to note that paying ransomware attackers is not recommended as it fuels further criminal activities and does not guarantee that the data will be returned or that the system will be secured.