Blackmail existed before cryptocurrencies. Maybe it was somewhat riskier, but when you are holding the East Coast of the United States hostage what are the cha

Blackmail existed before cryptocurrencies. Maybe it was somewhat riskier, but when you are holding the East Coast of the United States hostage what are the chances they grab your bagman and chance affecting millions of citizens? That risk in getting paid is a deterrent, but not much of one, especially if payment can be arranged to occur in a criminal friendly country. Some state actors may not even care if they get paid and would be just as happy to see the infrastructure burn. Some people are crazy and would destroy things just to appease the voices in their head. The true problem is not cryptocurrencies, it is the poorly protected software and people who use the software. Major fundamental changes are needed, and they won't be cheap or quick so start now.