Ransomware Attacks Surge, Yet Encryption Evasion Tactics Grow More Sophisticated

Microsoft data shows a significant increase in ransomware attacks, but improved security measures have led to a decrease in successful attacks, with social engineering remaining a common tactic.

Significant decrease in successful ransomware attacks reaching the data encryption stage
Improved security systems and user knowledge in preventing attacks
Majority of attacks stem from social engineering, highlighting the need for improved security measures and employee training

Recent data from Microsoft reveals a surge in ransomware attacks. However, despite the increase, many of these attacks are being thwarted in time, preventing significant damage. According to the company’s report, there has been a 2.75-fold growth in ransomware attacks compared to the previous year. Nevertheless, defenses against such attacks have also significantly improved.

The majority of ransomware attacks are intercepted before they reach the data encryption stage, which is undoubtedly the most detrimental phase. This can be attributed to the increasingly efficient protection tools available to block this type of attack. The data indicates that the number of ransomware attacks reaching this stage has dropped nearly threefold compared to the past two years. In addition to enhanced security systems, users have also become more knowledgeable in preventing these attacks.

Approximately 90% of attacks that successfully reach the encryption stage target systems within the same network as the origin of the attack but lack any active security measures. Among the most active ransomware groups, Akira accounts for 17% of all attacks last year, followed by LockBit at 15%. The “Play” group holds 7%, while both ALPHV/BlackCat and Black Basta stand at 6%.

The majority of attacks stem from social engineering techniques, tricking employees into unwittingly installing ransomware within their company’s internal network. This remains an area where improvements can still be made, such as adopting active security systems and implementing two-factor authentication for critical systems.

As social engineering continues to exploit human vulnerabilities, it remains one of the most frequently employed methods to gain access to potentially sensitive information from large corporations.

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Background Information

About Microsoft:

Microsoft, founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1975 in Redmond, Washington, USA, is a technology giant known for its wide range of software products, including the Windows operating system, Office productivity suite, and cloud services like Azure. Microsoft also manufactures hardware, such as the Surface line of laptops and tablets, Xbox gaming consoles, and accessories.