Stakeholders across the Internet want to improve its security. But no single entity coordinates efforts, implements sustainable cybersecurity, or addresses digital security market failures. IST unites key stakeholders across industry, government, and civil society to innovate new solutions, break down silos, and find effective new methods to advance digital security, including its work to counter the ransomware threat.
IST Initiatives (Current)

The Ransomware Task Force (RTF)
The Ransomware Task Force (RTF) combats the national security threat posed by the ransomware scourge with a cross-sector approach. In April 2021, the Ransomware Task Force launched its seminal report, “Combating Ransomware: A Comprehensive Framework for Action.” The product of over sixty (60) experts, the effort provided forty-eight (48) recommendations and advocated for a unified, aggressive, comprehensive, public-private anti-ransomware campaign. Within the first year, 88% of these recommendations saw some degree of implementation, with 25% experiencing significant progress, including among governments and industry.
Recent Content
RTF Report: Combating Ransomware
A Comprehensive Framework for Action: Key Recommendations from the Ransomware Task Force
RTF Progress Reports
As part of our ongoing mission to counter the ransomware threat, the Ransomware Task Force continually reflects on its original recommendations and monitors policy changes across industry and government. We engage with these findings openly, and work with our members to be agile in our ongoing recommendations.
Blueprint for Ransomware Defense
An Action Plan for Ransomware Mitigation, Response, and Recovery for Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises
RTF Year Two: New Map; New Data: Same Mission
Announcements
April 2021: Online Launch Event
May 2022: Combating Ransomware: A year of action
IST Joins Cyber Civil Defense Initiative