Global ransomware attacks

The biggest companies are attacked daily

Every single day, at least ten businesses around the world wake up to a nightmare. They’ve been targeted by ransomware gangs who’ve extracted and encrypted sensitive data from victims’ computer networks, then demanded a hefty sum for their silence and the safe return of the digital loot. These gangs are making a fortune out of these assaults, amassing enormous revenues yearly. The main point of these coordinated attacks is simply to earn money, thus the perpetrators estimate the downtime caused by their attacks and evaluate the possible loss suffered by the company before handing out ransom demands to their victims. As for the captured information if the ransom isn't paid? Well, it's publicly released for all to see, wreaking havoc for the victimized companies and their reputation. Despite the technical complexities, the threat is straightforward — pay or be exposed.

Biggest Companies Affected

Small businesses and individuals also at risk

Imagine a digital wave, a silent tide of cyber-assaults sweeping the internet. Ransomware gangs do not discriminate between their prey. This is the world of ransomware — an ever emerging threat that can turn old software and firmware into a liability, leaving a costly trail of chaos and lost data for everybody who comes into contact with it. Remember the WannaCry virus, born out of the infamous EternalBlue exploit? It capitalized on a vulnerability in the SMB protocol, spreading like wildfire and causing havoc worldwide. The lesson is simple: stay updated, stay vigilant, and try not to become the next victim of this relentless cyber menace by keeping your own security game sharp with the best Antivirus solutions.

All industries are affected

When it comes to ransomware attacks, no sector is safe from the clutches of cybercriminals. They infiltrate healthcare, finance, education, and beyond, making a huge impact on the everyday lives of regular people. No industry is immune to this cyber plague and to fight it, understanding the following is the first step: today's frontier is digital, and the bad guys, unfortunately, know their way around. This diagram maps out the far-reaching impact of ransomware across a multitude of industries. Prepare to be astonished as we traverse the vast landscape of disrupted operations, compromised data, and the staggering consequences faced by organisations from every corner of the global economy in a multitude of countries.

Most attacked industries

So who's doing it?

Behind the shadowy veil of ransomware attacks lie the individuals and groups responsible for wreaking havoc on a global scale. Imagine a landscape populated by digital predators, each with a victim count that grows every day. Our diagrams, bringing this alarming reality to life, let you analyze and compare the various ransomware gangs and their victims. Ransomware is an ever-emerging and universal threat, impacting all of us, so the first step in combating it is keeping up to date with the latest news. Journey with us as we unravel the secrets and motivations of these digital adversaries, piecing together the puzzle of their nefarious activities.

Most active ransomware gangs

Ransomware gang activity is growing

The world of ransomware is not stagnant; it’s a dynamic landscape constantly evolving and adapting. In this dynamic diagram, we capture the relentless growth of ransomware gangs and the count of their victims. Witness the exponential rise in their activity over time first hand and compare one gang to another to gain insight into their dark world.

Yearly Ransomware Gang Victims

How to protect yourself

In the face of the relentless onslaught of ransomware attacks, there is hope. By understanding the nature of the threat and adopting robust cybersecurity practices, individuals and organizations can fortify themselves against these digital marauders. In this enlightening diagram, we unveil a set of powerful safeguards and practical strategies to shield yourself from the clutches of ransomware. In this enlightening diagram, we unveil a set of powerful safeguards and practical strategies to shield yourself from the clutches of ransomware.

What is ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malware, also known as malicious software that encrypts the victim’s files and demands a ransom to decrypt them.

While most types of ransomware only encrypt a user’s files, others also threaten to publish them. Because of this, ransomware can be hugely damaging to an individual or an organization, both in terms of finances and reputation.

Ransomware is designed to infiltrate and encrypt a victim's data, rendering it inaccessible until a ransom is paid to the attackers. It exploits vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, or applications to gain unauthorized access. Once the ransomware successfully encrypts the files, the attackers demand a ransom, typically in cryptocurrency, in exchange for providing the decryption key.

Ransomware monitoring is a proactive approach used by organizations and individuals to detect and prevent ransomware attacks. It involves continuously monitoring network activities, endpoint devices, and data repositories to identify potential signs of ransomware activity and take prompt action to mitigate its impact.

Effective ransomware monitoring plays a crucial role in safeguarding against data breaches and minimizing the risk of falling victim to extortion attempts.

How does ransomware work?

In a nutshell, the ransomware program encrypts (or scrambles) the user’s files one by one, deleting the originals. The ransomware displays the ransom message either by changing the desktop background or by opening a custom application in full screen.

Once a victim unknowingly installs ransomware, it initiates a series of steps. First, the ransomware operates in the background, encrypting the user's files one by one while simultaneously deleting the original copies. Next, it displays a ransom message, often by altering the desktop background or launching a custom application in full screen, giving the victim an ultimatum: pay a specified amount as ransom to regain access to their files, or risk losing them forever if the ransom is not paid.

The ransom note typically includes a Bitcoin or other cryptocurrency address to facilitate the payment process. Once the victim sends the correct amount of cryptocurrency to the provided address, they are promised an unlock key or password. However, there is no guarantee that paying the ransom will result in the files being decrypted, as some attackers may not uphold their end of the deal.

Encryption, though a critical security technology for various online activities, can be exploited by hackers to deny victims access to their own data and extort money from them.

How our tool monitors ransomware

Ransomlooker is our comprehensive tool that monitors ransomware groups' extortion sites and delivers a consolidated feed of their claims. Stay informed and vigilant with our service, designed to keep you updated on potential threats and ensure your online safety.

Our ransomware monitoring tool, Ransomlooker, employs advanced algorithms to track and analyze ransomware groups' activities continuously. It constantly scans the dark web and other hidden corners of the internet where ransomware operators tend to operate, identifying new extortion sites and monitoring their claims. By aggregating and consolidating this data, Ransomlooker provides real-time updates and actionable insights to its users, helping them stay one step ahead of potential threats.

With Ransomlooker, you can proactively safeguard your business or personal data from ransomware attacks. Our tool ensures you are promptly informed about emerging ransomware campaigns and the tactics used by attackers. By staying vigilant and informed, you can take timely measures to protect your systems and data, reducing the risk of falling victim to ransomware.

This monitoring tool is user-friendly and designed to be accessible for businesses of all sizes and individuals concerned about their cybersecurity. Whether you are a small business owner, an IT professional, or simply a security-conscious individual, Ransomlooker provides a crucial layer of defense against ransomware attacks.

How to prevent ransomware?

Preventing ransomware requires a multi-layered approach that focuses on both technical and human factors. Firstly, ensure your systems are up-to-date with the latest security patches and software updates. Employ robust antivirus and anti-malware solutions, along with intrusion detection systems, to identify and block potential threats.

Regularly back up your data and store it offline or in a secure cloud environment to mitigate the impact of a potential ransomware attack. Learn more about safe online practices, such as avoiding suspicious emails, links, and downloads. Use a reliable password manager and enable multi-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security.

Segment your network to limit the lateral movement of malware and restrict user privileges to only what is necessary. Regularly conduct cybersecurity training and simulated phishing exercises to raise awareness and reinforce good security habits. By adopting a proactive and vigilant approach, you can definitely reduce the risk of falling victim to ransomware attacks.