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Ransomware
Definition
Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts files or systems and demands payment for decryption. It is one of the most impactful forms of cybercrime for organisations.
In a ransomware attack, malware infects an organisation's network, encrypts files and blocks access to systems. Attackers then demand payment, often in cryptocurrency, in exchange for the decryption key.
Modern ransomware attacks are double-edged: in addition to encryption, attackers also steal data and threaten to publish it (double extortion). Attack vectors include phishing emails, unpatched vulnerabilities and stolen RDP access.
Prevention involves regular backups, network segmentation, endpoint protection and 24/7 threat monitoring. DEFION offers incident response specifically for ransomware attacks.
Types of ransomware
Encrypting ransomware encrypts files and demands a ransom for the decryption key. Locker ransomware locks the entire system without encrypting files. Wiper ransomware permanently destroys data, even after payment. Doxware threatens to publicly release stolen sensitive data. Europol reported that ransomware attacks in 2023 accounted for more than 60% of all financially motivated cybercrime. The average downtime following a ransomware attack is 24 days according to Coveware research.
Types of ransomware
Encrypting ransomware encrypts files and demands a ransom for the decryption key. Locker ransomware locks the entire system without encrypting files. Wiper ransomware permanently destroys data even after payment. Doxware threatens to publicly release stolen sensitive data if the ransom is not paid.
Impact on organisations
Ransomware can bring an organisation to a complete standstill: production, communication, administration and service delivery all cease. Costs extend far beyond the ransom itself: recovery expenses, lost productivity, legal fees, reputational damage and potential fines under NIS2 or GDPR. NIS2 requires organisations in critical sectors to report ransomware incidents to the competent authority within 24 hours. Europol reported that ransomware attacks in 2023 accounted for more than 60% of all financially motivated cybercrime. The average downtime following a ransomware attack is 24 days according to Coveware.
Protection against ransomware
Effective protection requires multiple layers. Prevention: regular backups that are offline and tested, patch management, network segmentation, MFA on all accounts and endpoint protection. Detection: 24/7 monitoring through MDR or a SOC that identifies suspicious activity early. Preparation: an incident response plan with clear roles, communication lines and exercises. Avoid paying the ransom: there is no guarantee that attackers will return the data and payment funds further attacks.
How DEFION helps
DEFION provides 24/7 incident response specifically for ransomware attacks, with a dedicated DFIR team that can be engaged immediately through an incident response retainer. Managed Detection and Response (MDR) detects ransomware activity before encryption occurs. Tabletop exercises prepare the crisis team for realistic ransomware scenarios.