HBO willing to pay hackers $250,000 in bid to delay data release

HBO network is saying that they are willing to pay $250,000 to hackers who hacked into its computer system, asking to extend the deadline for paying a much larger amount. HBO is facing a massive cyber attack that feared the leaked script of "Game of Thrones" and private information of some of its cast.

It is expected for more sensitive content to be leaked in the incoming days if the ransom money will not be settled. "Our demand is clear and Non-Negotiable: We want XXXX dollars to stop leaking your Data," said a video message from the hackers, which was also reviewed by the news outlet."

The hacker called "Mr Smith" claimed responsibility for the attack and has initially demanded to be paid the equivalent of six months of their salary-claiming they earn between $12 million and  $15 million from stealing intellectual property and blackmailing companies.

HBO response in a note said that the company (HBO) was willing to make the payment"as a show of good faith," but needed time to fund an account for sending payments in bitcoin digital currency or obtain a necessary account from the hacker.

HBO is now working with the FBI and cyber security experts to investigate the attack. Furthermore, HBO executives have refrained from identifying the money as ransom, but rather as a bounty payment,  a reward to white hackers who expose flaws in their system.