Ransomware remains one of the most common cybersecurity threats faced by organizations and individuals across the globe. In spite of widespread awareness, the ransomware threat landscape continues to evolve, becoming more sophisticated, targeted, and damaging. This exhaustive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about ransomware: its definition, evolution, attack mechanics, prevention, detection, and incident response, making you better prepared to defend against this ever-present digital menace.
1. What is a ransomware?
Ransomware is a malware that locks a victim's files, systems, or devices and demands a ransom payment from the victim in order to regain access.
Adversaries exposing corporate data on the dark web

The attacker demands payment, often in cryptocurrency like Bitcoin, in exchange for the decryption key. In some cases, attackers threaten to leak sensitive data if the ransom is not paid (also known as double extortion). Ransomware attacks commonly target individuals, businesses, the public sector, and critical infrastructure.
Key characteristic traits of ransomware:
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Encrypts or locks data, systems, or devices.
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Demands a ransom payment for data restoration.
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Includes data exfiltration and extortion tactics.
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Attempts to remove back up data.
2. Ransomware vs. Malware: What’s the difference?
Malware (short for 'malicious software;) is an umbrella term for any software designed to infiltrate, damage, or steal from a system without the end user’s consent. This includes viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, adware and ransomware. Ransomware is a type of malware that locks or encrypts a victim’s data and demands payment (ransom) to unlock it. Ransomware is disruptive and financially motivated. In short, all ransomware is malware, but not all malware is ransomware.
Shield your business from ransomware chaos

3. Why does ransomware still pose a threat?
Despite years of cybersecurity advancements, ransomware remains a top threat. Attackers continuously adapt to security measures, exploit new vulnerabilities, and refine their tactics. Here’s why ransomware persists:
Even with years of progress in cybersecurity, ransomware hasn’t gone away. In fact, it’s as dangerous as ever. Attackers are constantly equipping themselves with ways to outsmart modern security tools, refine their tactics and exploit vulnerabilities. Here’s a closer look at why ransomware continues to be such a persistent problem.
It’s incredibly profitable for the attackers:
- Lucrative payoff:
Ransomware attacks can rake in millions for cybercriminals, often with low risk.
- Cryptocurrency makes it easier:
Most ransom payments are demanded in cryptocurrency, making it tough for law enforcement to trace the money and catch the culprits.
- Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS):
Now, even hackers without much technical skill can purchase or rent ransomware tools from more advanced developers, making it easier than ever to launch attacks and inadvertenly creating a malicious business.
Attacker tactics have evolved:
- Double and triple extortion:
Ransomware has moved past beyond encrypting your files. Many attackers first steal sensitive data, before encrypting them, followed by threats to leak it if the ransom isn’t paid. Some attacks even pressure your customers or business partners to turn up the heat.
- Targeted attacks:
Instead of casting a wide net and hoping for the best, today’s attackers do their homework (deep reconnaissance). They zero in on organizations most likely to pay a hefty ransom.
- Supply chain attacks:
By breaching a single trusted supplier, attackers can potentially access several downstream organizations at once, putting the entire supply chain ecosystem and its stakeholders at risk.
Remote work has opened new doors
With so many people working remotely since COVID-19, the number of vulnerable entry points has exploded. Cybercriminals are taking full advantage, targeting unsecured remote desktop protocols (RDP), VPN flaws, and unpatched systems.
Sophisticated evasion tactics
- Fileless ransomware:
Instead of relying on file signatures that security tools can detect, attackers use built-in system utilities like PowerShell and in-memory attacks to lay low and fly under the radar, making them invisible to traditional antivirus solutions.
- Living-off-the-Land (LotL):
By leveraging legitimate admin tools (such as PsExec or WMIC), ransomware can move laterally through networks without flagging immediate suspicion.
- Obfuscation and polymorphism:
Ransomware strains are constantly morphing, changing its code signatures to slip past traditional antivirus defenses.
Gaps in basic cybersecurity practices
Shockingly, many organizations still struggle with the basics like keeping systems patched, using strong passwords, maintaining reliable backups, or ensuring staff are trained to spot threats and steer clear from phishing attempts. In short, Ransomware continues to thrive, thanks to a mix of criminal ingenuity, evolving technology, and persistent weaknesses in both human behaviour and organizational security. Without a holistic approach to defense, the threat isn’t likely to disappear anytime soon.
4. How does a ransomware attack work?
Ransomware attacks unfold in a series of calculated steps, often combining technical tricks with psychological manipulation. Let’s break down what really happens behind the scenes when someone falls victim to ransomware.
Ransomware attack lifecycle: Step by step
Ransomware attack lifecycle

- Infection:
It begins when ransomware finds its way onto a victim’s computer. This might happen through a convincing phishing email, a malicious download, or by exploiting a vulnerability lurking in outdated software.
- Execution:
Once the ransomware lands, the malicious program quietly runs in the background, often slipping past security defenses undetected. It is at this stage when early detection is crucial to prevent further spread to subsequent stages.
- Command & Control (C2) communication:
Next, the malware reaches out to an external server to check in with its creator, the attacker. This step allows attackers to relay instructions or, in some cases, start siphoning off sensitive data through data exfiltration.
- Lateral movement and privilege escalation:
The attacker attempts to spread ransomware across the network, searching for valuable data or higher privileges, aiming to take control of as many systems as possible.
- Data exfiltration:
Before locking everything down, attackers often copy confidential files to their own servers, giving them extra leverage
- Encryption:
Files or even entire systems are locked away from you using strong encryption. This is accompanied by a ransom note (a pop-up), demanding payment to restore access to the compromised files
- Extortion:
The victim is threatened with permanent data loss, service disruptions, or their sensitive information published online unless they pay up. Some attackers even reach out to victims’ clients or partners, adding extra pressure.
How does Ransomware sneak in? Common Infection Methods:
Understanding how ransomware first gets in is key to stopping it. Here are the most common ways:
Phishing
Phishing stays one of the most popular methods to establish a ransomware attack. Attackers trick people into clicking malicious links or opening infected attachments. Spear-phishing takes it a step further, targeting specific individuals with messages that seem eerily personal. Unlike standard phishing, spear phishing aims a specific target with information that resonates with the individual.
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) exploits
Leaving RDP exposed to the internet and protected by weak passwords is like leaving your front door unlocked. This gives attackers a chance to use brute-force tricks or known vulnerabilities to break in.
Software vulnerabilities
Old, unpatched operating systems or applications are easy targets. Third-party plugins can be a weak link and even a single neglected update can create an opening for attackers to exploit an entry point into the system.
Malvertising
You might be browsing a trusted site when a rogue ad delivers a ransomware onto your device. These malicious ads can appear even on reputable sites, making them particularly sneaky.
Supply chain attacks
Sometimes, attackers don’t come after you directly. They compromise trusted software vendors or service providers, sneaking in through updates or integrations you thought were safe. The Kaseya and SolarWinds incidents are prime examples of this type of attack.
Infected software downloads and pirated content
Downloading cracked software or media from unofficial sources isn’t just a legal risk, it’s also a cybersecurity gamble from a business point of view. These files are notorious for hiding ransomware and other malicious executables.
Exploited cloud services
As many businesses have shifted to the cloud, threat actors have followed. Poorly secured cloud storage, misconfigured permissions, or weak API keys can provide an entry point for ransomware to spread.
Removable media
Infected USB drives and external hard drives can bring ransomware straight into your network, especially if devices are shared between home and work.
5. Types of ransomware | The many faces of ransomware
Ransomware isn’t just a single trick, it’s a whole playbook of dirty moves. Some types go after your files, others your privacy, and some even your smart home gadgets. Attackers are always thinking up new ways to turn the pressure up, so knowing what’s out there is your first line of defense.
| Type | How it works | Attacks | What it looks like in real life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crypto Ransomware | Encrypts your important files so you can’t open them, unless you pay the hackers for a decryption key. | CryptoLocker, WannaCry, Ryuk | You turn on your laptop and suddenly all your family photos, work documents, and emails are locked, with a message demanding Bitcoin to get them back. |
| Locker Ransomware | Locks you out of your entire device with no access to anything, but your files themselves aren’t scrambled. | WinLocker | You can’t even get to your desktop; your screen is frozen with a ransom note, and restarting your machine does nothing. |
| Doxware (Extortionware) | Steals private or sensitive information, then threatens to leak it online or sell it unless you pay up. | Maze, REvil/Sodinokibi | You get an email: “Pay us or we’ll post your payroll records or private emails on the internet for everyone to see.” |
| Ransomware-as-a-Service | Even amateur hackers can rent ransomware kits from criminal “developers,” splitting any ransom paid. Low effort with relatively high reward for everyone involved | DarkSide, Dharma, LockBit | A hacker with limited skills launches an attack by subscribing to a “ransomware toolkit” online, just like you’d buy a streaming subscription |
| Mobile Ransomware | Targets your smartphone or tablet and can lock your device or encrypt your photos, contacts, and messages. | Svpeng, LockerPin | Your phone is suddenly unusable, and the only thing you can see is a demand for payment, often with a scary timer ticking down. |
| Wiper Ransomware | Pretends to offer a way out, but actually destroys your data even if you pay. The goal is chaos, not profit. | NotPetya, Shamoon | Files are wiped out permanently with no way to recover them, no matter how much you pay. This often hits big organizations or is used for sabotage. |
| Hybrid Ransomware | Combines multiple tactics including encrypting files, locking screens, and threatening to leak data all at once for maximum pressure. | Ragnar Locker, DoppelPayme | Ragnar Locker, DoppelPaymer You’re locked out, your files are encrypted, and you’re warned your data will be leaked. The attackers throw everything at you hoping you’ll panic and pay quickly. |
| Industrial Ransomware | Targets operational technology (OT) and industrial control systems (ICS). Disrupts production or critical processes, holding uptime hostage until a ransom is paid. | Ekans/Snake | Your company's safety system fails to trigger the emergency kill switch, trapping workers inside high-voltage zones until a ransom is paid within a particular time. |
| IoT Ransomware | Targets Internet of Things devices like smart TVs, security cameras and even connected fridges. Locks them or threatens to disrupt their function until a ransom is paid. | Linux.Encoder, various new strains | Your smart home suddenly stops working, and you get a message on your phone: “Pay $500 or your thermostat and cameras stay offline.” |
Pro tip: Irrespective of the ransomware type, the best protection is a mix of strong passwords, regular backups, mindful clicking, and keeping your devices up to date.
6. Who’s really at risk of a ransomware attack?
LockBit Black ransomware warning screen

The uncomfortable truth is, nobody is completely safe from ransomware. Attackers cast a wide net, but certain groups and industries find themselves in the cross-hair more often than others.
High-value targets
- Large enterprises:
Big companies, especially those in sectors like finance, healthcare, or energy, are prime targets. Why? Their work is mission-critical, and downtime simply isn’t an option. Attackers are also aware that these organizations are under immense pressure to get back online quickly, making them more likely to pay up.
- Public Sector organizations:
Local governments, police departments, public schools, and hospitals are frequent victims. With limited IT budgets but essential community roles, these groups often struggle to keep security up to par, making them tempting and easy targets.
- Critical Infrastructure:
Utilities, transportation networks, and logistics companies keep society running. Disrupting them can cause widespread chaos and cybercriminals know it.
Small and medium-sized Businesses (SMBs)
Even the small fish is not spared from the hook. Smaller businesses usually lack in-depth cybersecurity defenses, making them low-hanging fruit for attackers. What they may not realize is that even a single attack can be crippling, sometimes putting them out of business for good.
Everyday individuals
Think you’re too small to be noticed? Think again. Personal laptops and smartphones are targeted more often than you’d expect, especially if basic security steps are skipped. Phishing emails, malicious downloads, and weak passwords are all it takes.
Supply chain connections
Attackers don’t always go straight for the main target. Sometimes, they break in through trusted partners—vendors, managed service providers (MSPs), or third-party contractors. If your business is part of a larger supply chain, you might be the weak link that opens the door to a much bigger victim.
Anyone with valuable data
If you’re sitting on information that matters, whether it’s customer details, intellectual property, or financial records, you’re on the radar. It’s as simple as that.
What’s at stake if ransomware hits?
Payroll and sensitive files exposed in the aftermath of a ransomware attack

Ransomware isn’t just about locked files or a ransom note on your screen. The fallout can be devastating, touching every corner of your organization or sometimes, your personal life.
- Data loss:
Sometimes, critical files are gone for good, especially if you don’t have reliable backups or if those backups get hit too.
- Financial impact:
The cost quickly adds up, not just from ransom payments (which can run into the millions), but also from hiring experts, legal fees, and potential regulatory fines.
- Crippled operations:
Business grinds to a halt. Orders go unfilled, services are suspended, and every minute of downtime chips away at your bottom line and reputation.
- Reputational damage:
News of a ransomware attack spreads fast. Customers may lose trust, and your brand could suffer lasting harm.
- Legal and regulatory trouble:
If sensitive data gets exposed, you could face investigations, lawsuits, or hefty fines under laws like GDPR or HIPAA.
- Data Breach fallout:
Stolen data can end up for sale on the dark web or be used in follow-up scams and attacks.
- Intellectual Property Theft:
Trade secrets, patents, or proprietary research can be stolen, eroding your competitive edge.
- Repeat attacks:
Sadly, paying the ransom doesn’t always mean it’s over. Attackers may leave a backdoor open for future exploitation or come back for a second round.
7. How to prevent ransomware attacks?
When it comes to ransomware, prevention is your best line of defense. A blend of smart habits, the right technology, and a proactive mindset can dramatically lower your risk whether you’re protecting a company or your own personal devices. Here’s how you can stay ahead of attackers:
- Conduct security awareness training:
Regularly train your team (or family) to spot suspicious emails, fake links, and social engineering tricks via mock drills. Cyber awareness isn’t just for the IT team and everyone plays a role.
- Patch early, patch often:
Keep your operating systems, apps, and devices updated. Most attacks exploit old, unpatched vulnerabilities, so timely updates close the door before hackers can slip in through the cracks.
- Strengthen authentication methods:
As per the principle of least privilege, use strong, unique passwords for every account and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. A few extra seconds can stop most break-ins cold.
- Divide and conquer:
Segment your network so that if an attacker gets in, they can’t move freely. Limit admin privileges by only giving people the access they absolutely need.
- Lock down your inbox:
Advanced email filtering and anti-phishing tools can catch most malicious messages before they land, ensuring your inbox is not the weakest link.
- Back up your data:
Regular, offline, and tamper-proof backups are your safety net. Test your backups, too. Restoring should be quick and straightforward when you need it the most.
- Modernize your defenses:
Deploy next-gen endpoint protection with behavioral analysis. Modern security tools can spot threats that older solutions miss.
- Embrace a zero-trust mindset:
Verify every user and device, every time. Assume attackers are already knocking and double-check everything.
- Keep a watchful eye:
Use real-time monitoring (like SIEM or threat hunting) to spot unusual activity. The faster you catch something, the less damage it can do.
- Secure remote access:
If you use VPNs, lock them down with MFA and monitor for odd access patterns—especially with so many working remotely.
How to detect and remove ransomware
Speed is everything. The sooner you spot ransomware, the more you can contain the damage. Here are some tools to make your ransomware response fast and effective:
- Next-gen Antivirus:
Watch for odd file changes, mass encryption, or sudden spikes in system activity and intercept suspicious processes in real-time.
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR):
Use tools that catch process anomalies or strange access attempts in real time.
- Anti-ransomware:
Detect zero-day ransomware without requiring the need for a patient-zero. Block encryption attempts and maintain backup integrity.
- Managed Detection and Response (MDR):
You can reduce the burden on internal teams and outsource your detection and response to a team of security analysts who monitor and respond to ransomware threats in real time.
Turn insights into impact. Start your ransomware protection journey

8. Steps to take if you’re hit by ransomware
- Isolate the infected device:
Disconnect it from your network ASAP to stop the spread.
- Identify the strain:
Analyze ransom notes or encrypted files—tools like ID Ransomware can help.
- Remove the malware:
Use an antivirus or anti-ransomware solution. Use a free decryption tool such as No More Ransom Project.
- Restore from backups:
If your backups are clean and secure, use them to recover lost data.
- Investigate the attack:
Conduct a thorough forensic analysis to understand how the attack happened and what was affected.
- Patch the gaps:
Fix any vulnerabilities, plug misconfigurations to prevent repeat incidents.
- Report the attack:
Notify the appropriate authorities—transparency helps everyone stay safer.
Should you ever pay the ransom?
It’s the million-dollar question, quite literally. When faced with a ransomware attack, the pressure to pay can feel overwhelming. But here’s the bottom line: security experts, law enforcement, and government agencies all agree—paying the ransom is almost never a good idea.
Why not just pay and move on?
- No guarantees:
Handing over the money doesn’t mean you’ll actually get your files back. Many victims pay, only to receive a broken or fake decryption key, or nothing at all. Some attackers even decrypt a few files for free to build false trust and push you into paying out of desperation.
- Future target:
If you pay once, attackers may see you as an easy mark and hit you again, or even share your details with other cybercriminals.
- Legal trouble:
In some regions, paying a ransom, especially to sanctioned groups, could land you in hot water with the law.
- Fuelling crime:
Every ransom payment helps fund future attacks, putting more people and organizations at risk.
In short: Paying up is risky, uncertain, and only encourages more attacks. Your best bet is to focus on ransomware prevention, be prepared with solid backups, and always seek expert guidance if you’re ever caught in a ransomware tempest.
Government bodies to report ransomware attacks
| Region/Country | Agency/Body | Why Report Here | How to Report |
|---|---|---|---|
| International | INTERPOL | Coordinates cross-border cybercrime investigations | Go to INTERPOL |
| Europol EC3 | Fights cybercrime across Europe | Go to Europol EC3 | |
| No More Ransom Project | Free decryption tools, advice, global support | Go to No More Ransom | |
| United States | FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) | Central hub for US cybercrime and ransomware reports | Go to IC3 |
| CISA (Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency) | Fast response and coordination for critical infrastructure | Go to CISA | |
| US Secret Service | Handles major financial/cybercrime investigations | Go to Secret Service | |
| United Kingdom | National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) | National response and guidance for businesses/public | Go to NCSC |
| Action Fraud | UK’s national cybercrime and fraud reporting center | Go to Action Fraud | |
| India | CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) | National agency for cyber incident reporting | Go to CERT-In |
| Cybercrime Reporting Portal | Public to report all kinds of cybercrimes | Go to Portal | |
| Australia | Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) | National coordination and incident response | Go to ACSC |
| ReportCyber | Fast online reporting for Australian residents/businesse | Go to ReportCyber | |
| Canada | Canadian Centre for Cyber Security | Federal cyber incident reporting and advice | Go to Cyber Centre |
| Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre | For cyber-enabled fraud and ransomware | Go to CAFC | |
| Singapore | Singapore Cyber Security Agency (CSA) | Central authority for cyber incident response | Go to CSA |
| Germany | Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) | National reporting for cyberattacks & ransomware | Go to BSI |
Pro tip: When you report a ransomware attack, include as much detail as possible (screenshots, ransom notes, datesand affected systems). This not only helps your case, but also protects others by improving global threat intelligence.
How to bounce back after a ransomware attack
Even the best-prepared organizations can get caught off guard. If ransomware strikes, a clear, steady response is your path back to normal. Here’s how to recover quickly and come back even stronger:
Eliminate the threat
First things first: completely remove the ransomware from your network. Use trusted cybersecurity tools, and don’t hesitate to call in professionals if needed.
Restore your systems
Once the threat is gone, bring your data and systems back online using secure, offline backups. If possible, rebuild from clean system images to ensure you’re not restoring any lingering malware.
Ramp up your defenses
Identify and fix the security gaps that let the attack in. Patch any vulnerabilities, and take the opportunity to upgrade your security controls and policies.
Notify those affected
If sensitive data was compromised, follow all legal and regulatory requirements to inform customers, partners, or authorities. Transparency is key to maintaining trust.
Learn from the incident
Conduct a thorough post-mortem. Review how the attack happened, what worked in your response, and where you can improve. Every incident is a chance to learn and improve defenses.
Stay vigilant
Keep monitoring your network closely for any signs of lingering threats or hidden backdoors. Attackers sometimes return, and when they do, don’t give them the chance.
Strengthen your response play book
Update your incident response plan based on what you’ve learned. Share insights with your team and adjust training so you’re better prepared next time.
9. Notorious ransomware examples from history
| Attack & Year | What Happened? (In Real Terms) | Impact & Victims | Why It Still Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| CryptoLocker (2013) | One of the first attacks to use tough encryption and demand Bitcoin, catching victims off-guard worldwide. | Tens of millions in losses; thousands of businesses. | Set the template for modern ransomware playbooks. |
| TeslaCrypt (2015-16) | Targeted gamers by encrypting saved games, then branched out to all file types before its sudden (and rare) demise. | Gamers, small businesses, and individuals. | Ended with the attackers releasing a master decryption key; a rare “good ending.” |
| SamSam (2015-18) | Hackers manually broke into networks via weak remote desktop logins and locked up critical systems. | Hospitals, US cities, and government agencies. | Proved that tailored, hands-on attacks could cripple entire cities. |
| WannaCry (2017) | Spread like wildfire by exploiting a Windows flaw, causing chaos in hospitals and businesses worldwide. | NHS, FedEx, Renault, 200,000+ computers globally. | Ransomware went mainstream—everyone realized they could be next. |
| NotPetya (2017) | Disguised as ransomware, but wiped data for good, crippling Ukraine and spreading to multinationals. | Maersk, Merck, global firms; billions in damages. | Showed that ransomware could be a geopolitical weapon. |
| Bad Rabbit (2017) | Spread through fake Adobe Flash updates, locking up systems across Eastern Europe and media outlets. | Russian and Ukrainian media, transport companies. | Reminded everyone how easy it is to fall for a “routine” update. |
| GandCrab (2018-19) | Ransomware-as-a-Service model, spreading rapidly through affiliates and constantly evolving to avoid defenses. | Worldwide impact. | Started the affiliate model, speeding up ransomware’s spread. |
| Ryuk (2018-21) | Locked down big organizations—demanding huge payments and disrupting hospitals and city governments. | Municipalities, hospitals, schools and global firms. | Brought “big game hunting” to the ransomware scene. |
| Maze (2019-20) | Frequently used “double extortion", stealing data, then threatening to leak it if victims didn’t pay. | Manufacturing, tech and healthcare companies. | Changed victim’s calculus: pay or risk a full-blown data breach. |
| REvil/Sodinokibi (2019-21) | Known for hitting high-profile targets and massive ransom demands. Also behind the Kaseya supply chain attack. | Major corporations, supply chain providers. | Showed how ransomware gangs target entire ecosystems, not just single companies. |
| DoppelPaymer (2020) | Combined data theft and file encryption, then publicly shamed victims on leak sites. | Car manufacturers, hospitals, government orgs. | The shame tactic pressured even more victims to pay up. |
| Egregor (2020-21) | Rushed in after Maze shut down, hitting retailers and logistics with data leaks and network disruptions. | Barnes & Noble, logistics and gaming companies. | Demonstrated how quickly new gangs fill the void and innovate. |
| Colonial Pipeline (2021) | Attack on a crucial US fuel supplier caused panic buying and fuel shortages along the East Coast. | Colonial Pipeline (US critical infrastructure). | Showed ransomware could disrupt daily life and national security. |
| CNA Financial (2021) | One of the largest ransom payments on record—reportedly $40 million—to recover from a crippling attack. | Major US insurance firm. | Sparked debate about paying ransoms and the insurance industry’s role. |
| Kaseya (2021) | Supply chain attack via IT management software, spreading ransomware to 1,000+ businesses in one swoop. | Small businesses, MSPs and clients worldwide. | Proved one weak link can lead to a domino effect of victims. |
| Costa Rica Government (2022) | Conti ransomware group crippled government agencies, disrupting tax collection, healthcare, and customs. | Costa Rican government, public services. | A nation forced to declare a state of emergency—ransomware as a national crisis. |
| Medibank (2022) | Health insurer hit with ransomware, with attackers leaking sensitive medical data when no ransom was paid. | Millions of Australian customers. | Showed the real human cost of data leaks—privacy, dignity, and trust. |
| MOVEit (2023) | Mass exploitation of a file transfer tool led to data breaches at hundreds of organizations worldwide. | British Airways, BBC, US government contractors. | Supply chain attacks keep evolving—nobody is “too big” to be targeted. |
10. Neutralize ransomware with ManageEngine Ransomware Protection Plus
Ransomware is a real risk that’s catching even well-prepared organizations off guard. That’s why ManageEngine Ransomware Protection Plus steps in as more than just another security tool. It’s a dedicated solution designed to anticipate, catch, and shut down ransomware before it can disrupt your business.
What sets Ransomware Protection Plus apart?
ManageEngine Ransomware Protection Plus

- Real-time behavioural detection:
Instead of waiting for damage to happen, this solution uses smart AI analytics to spot and stop suspicious file encryption attempts
- Automated threat response:
The moment ransomware is detected, infected devices are isolated, malicious processes are halted, and your security team is instantly notified—so response is swift and coordinated.
- Mitigate zero-day attacks:
Block and decimate newly evolving ransomware strains even before their signatures exist.
- Immutable Backups:
With secure, tamper-proof backups, your data remains recoverable even if attackers try to target your backup files.
- Centralized Dashboard:
Eliminate blind spots by getting a clear, organization-wide view of active incidents, vulnerabilities, and every action taken, all in one place.
- Straightforward value:
Enterprise-grade protection at a cost that won’t break the bank. Quick deployment, user-friendly, and built to run quietly in the background without slowing you down.
- Single-click recovery:
Restore compromised files instantly with one click. Minimize downtime and disruption across your business.
- Offline protection:
Core detection and response capabilities remain active even offline, ensuring ransomware defense works when devices are disconnected from the internet.
- Augments your existing security solutions:
Ransomware Protection Plus works seamlessly alongside your existing tools like Antivirus, EDR, and MDR, serving as a failsafe against advanced ransomware attacks that slip through standard defenses.