The 5th International Counter Ransomware Initiative (CRI) Summit took place on 24 October 2025 at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, marking the first time the event was held outside the US. The summit, part of the Singapore International Cyber Week 2025, was organised by the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) and brought together nearly 150 representatives from 60 countries, international organisations, and private sector entities. This gathering underscores the global commitment to combating ransomware.
The CRI, established in 2021, is the only multilateral platform focused on international collaboration against ransomware. Co-chaired by Singapore, Australia, Germany, the UK, and the US, the initiative now includes 74 member countries and organisations. Notably, this summit saw the participation of private sector entities, including Ensign InfoSecurity, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing ransomware threats.
Josephine Teo, Singapore’s Minister for Digital Development and Information, emphasised the collective resolve against ransomware, stating, “No country, no matter their capabilities or experience, can combat this wicked problem effectively by going it alone.” The summit facilitated discussions on enhancing international cooperation and resilience against ransomware, with members agreeing to improve communication between private organisations and governments, develop capacity-building initiatives, and adopt effective recommendations.
A key outcome was the endorsement of a Guidance for Organisations to Build Supply Chain Resilience Against Ransomware, led by Singapore and the UK. This guidance aims to bolster supply chain security and reduce the impact of ransomware incidents. The summit reaffirmed the CRI’s commitment to fostering international collaboration in cybersecurity efforts.
