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Ransomware Trends and Information

Ransomware is a kind of malicious software that encrypts computer systems' files to prevent users from accessing their data until a ransom is paid to the attacker. Ransomware has been on the rise: 68.5% of organizations worldwide suffered attacks in 2021.

There is no sign of ransomware attacks slowing down. In April 2022, energy company Oil India was hit by an attack, and the hackers demanded $7.5 million in exchange for returning control of their IT systems. Instead of instantly paying the ransom, Oil India called on local and international officials for assistance—suffering significant financial losses in the meantime.

When coupled with digital supply chain compromise and with remote or mobile workers accessing the network, ransomware attacks can come from anywhere. There are specific types of protection that minimize risk and reduce the impact of ransomware attacks at different layers including: 

  • cloud-based security solutions such as SASE to protect off-network devices

  • advanced endpoint security known as EDR (endpoint detection and response) solutions that can disrupt malware mid-attack

  • network segmentation strategies including Zero Trust Access that restrict access to applications and resources based on policy and context

Along with multiple layers of protection, organizations need to make foundational changes to the frequency, location, and security of their data backups to effectively deal with the evolving and rapidly expanding risk of ransomware.

Related Topics

Ransomware Removal

Find out how to know if your systems have been infected with ransomware and what you can do to stop it from infiltrating your network. Learn about the four basic steps to remove ransomware from endpoints and servers: cut off internet access, run an investigation with your internet security software, use a ransomware decryption tool, and restore your data from a backup.

Ransomware Prevention

Data center infrastructure that is distributed across hybrid environments greatly expands the attack surface. A holistic security strategy that can seamlessly span distributed environments helps mitigate the risk of ransomware attacks. Learn how to prevent ransomware attacks from succeeding, respond to a ransomware attack, and when to pay (or not pay) the ransom.

Ransomware Settlements

It’s everywhere, FortiGuard Labs 2H 2023 Threat Landscape Report saw a 40% rise in ransomware targeting industrial sectors. Recent settlement events show the convergence of volume, targeted attacks, and sophistication increase the risk. And multiple crypto-currencies make it easier for attackers to monetize, and harder to track attacks. See why cyber insurance is not a stop gap.

Ransomware Attacks

There are many types of ransomware attacks. Organizations need protection from ransomware to secure critical business operations, and sensitive information, and avoid fines. Without it, attackers can hijack your systems and encrypt your data, bringing business to a halt. Then, you either pay the ransom or try mitigation to reclaim your data–at a significant financial loss. 

4,000

Estimated number of ransomware attacks per day.

35%

Organizations that recovered all their data after a ransomware incident

2x or more

45% of organizations targeted for multiple ransomware attacks

Supporting Ransomware Resources

Stop Ransomware With Ongoing Preparation

Stop Ransomware With Ongoing Preparation

Download the White Paper
Ransomware Readiness Assessment

Ransomware Readiness Assessment

Get the Assessment
Mapping the Ransomware Landscape

Mapping the Ransomware Landscape

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Reduce the Risk of Ransomware

Reduce the Risk of Ransomware

Read the Report
Ransomware Risks and Recommendations

Ransomware Risks and Recommendations

View the Infographic
2021 Ransomware Survey Report

2021 Ransomware Survey Report

Download the Report

Ransomware Resources

Browse Fortinet Cyberglossary articles to learn more about ransomware and how to protect your company against ransomware attacks.

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