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Ransomware attack

Installing ransomware onto someone’s computer is like taking it hostage. You won’t be able to use the device until someone deactivates the software. 

Ransomware attacks simplified

Hackers very often use this method against larger organizations. For example, if a company’s system gets hijacked by ransomware attackers, they can take its data and network hostage. Then, they’ll threaten to delete all files and records unless the company pays a ransom to the attackers.

Probability

Chances of becoming a victim of ransomware attack are very low (1 in 96).

Tips to prevent ransomware

Employ back-up

Back up your devices and store your data separately. This way, you’ll have something to fall back on in case you fall victim to a ransomware attack.

Stay updated

Keep your software and OS up to date. Ransomware can creep inside your devices through vulnerabilities in your system. Make sure it’s always patched!

Be wary of emails

Don’t open suspicious emails, attachments, or URLs as they can carry viruses. If you’re thinking of opening any links or files, check them on websites like VirusTotal first.

Ransomware crime stats

According to the FBI Internet Crime Reports, here's how devastating ransomware attacks were from 2015 to 2023:

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Lost to cybercriminals
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People were victims to ransomware attack
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Ransomware attack cases have reached record numbers with 3.7K yearly victims (around 10 victims per day) in 2021.

Victims have reported the highest average financial loss to ransomware attacks in 2023 ($21.1K per victim).

During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, the number of ransomware cases grew by 21%, and the average financial loss grew by 169% (from $4.4K to $11.8K) per victim compared to 2019 as well.

Despite the increasing awareness of online crimes, daily financial losses to ransomware attacks have grown around thirty seven times from 2015 ($4.4K per day) to 2023 ($163.4K per day).

Learn more

Stop ransomware (US) No more ransomware (EU)FBIReport (US) Internet Crime Complaint Center (US)Report cybercrime (EU)