The growth of ransomware attacks: What your company should know

Ransomware has become a serious threat to organizations of all sizes. As we move into 2025, it's clear that the number and complexity of these attacks are rising, making it essential for everyone to understand the dangers of ransomware attacks.

What are ransomware attacks all about?

So, what exactly are ransomware attacks? At its core, ransomware is a type of malware created to block access to your business's files or systems until a ransom is paid. As the threat is based on financial gain, ransomware damages are expected to cost organizations $265 billion annually by 2031.

When a victim of a ransomware attack, businesses will usually find important data or devices locked and a message demanding payment to get access. Not only is this stressful, but the impact on organizations can be damaging. Effects include:

• Operational downtime
• Loss of sensitive data
• Reputational harm
• Financial damage

Ransomware attacks are particularly dangerous because they use fear and urgency. The thought of losing crucial data or seeing disruptions can push organizations to make rushed decisions, often leading to more problems down the line.

Why ransomware attacks are a major concern

The future of ransomware is more worrying than ever. Studies show a significant rise in these attacks, with experts predicting even tougher times ahead if preventive steps aren't taken. In fact, a ransomware attack is expected to happen every two seconds by 2031.

And certain industries face an even higher risk of experiencing ransomware. Spambrella reported the top 10 industries most vulnerable to ransomware attacks in 2025, among which were:

1. Healthcare: Due to the sensitivity of the personal data kept
2. Financial institutions: Cybercriminals are drawn to their direct access to finances
3. Education: Full of personal data and often under-protected

Stanford University faced a security breach when its Department of Public Safety was targeted by a ransomware attack, compromising the personal information of 27 000 people. The breach, which began in May 2023 and was only discovered in September of that year, highlights the increased reach and damage of ransomware attacks.

Even as cybersecurity evolves, threat actors continue to find flaws in defenses and take advantage of them. Understanding how this happens is the first step toward protecting your company's data.

How ransomware attacks slip in via email

One of the most common ways ransomware enters systems is through email, with phishing contributing to 35% of these attacks. Employees will generally receive a message that seems to be from a trusted source, urging them to click a link or download an attachment. Suddenly, ransomware gains access to the system, encrypting files and causing chaos behind the scenes.

Consider this: A company receives an email from a lookalike domain that they think is an invoice from a supplier. An unsuspecting employee opens the attachment, and in moments, the network is compromised. This scenario highlights how ransomware can sneak in, showing the need for cybersecurity awareness.

Experiencing a ransomware attack

How can your business tell if its system has been hit by ransomware? There are a few key signs to watch out for:

• Suddenly inaccessible files
• Urgent payment prompts to unlock data
• Strange file endings or document behavior

Real-life examples show that early detection is crucial. For example, Casio suffered a massive ransomware attack last year, which resulted in data being stolen from 6 456 employees, 1 931 business partners, and 91 customers. If team members notice odd activity—like files acting strangely—it's essential to look into it immediately.

Safeguarding against ransomware attacks

Businesses should adopt the following strategies and tools to reduce the chance of experiencing successful ransomware attacks:

• Regular system checks: Consistently monitor your company's systems for vulnerabilities
• Education & awareness: Teach staff to recognize signs of potential threats, such as suspicious emails or unusual file behavior
• Use DMARC: Implement Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance (DMARC) to improve email security and reduce the chance of falling victim to ransomware attacks via impersonation

Staying alert & informed

Understanding and preparing for ransomware attacks is vitally important. Businesses should be continuously informed about trending cyberthreats and adjust their security measures as they evolve.

To learn more about DMARC protection against email-based threats, book a demo with Sendmarc.