GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Ransomware Attacks Statistics: Market Report & Data

Highlights: Ransomware Attacks Statistics

  • In 2019, the total cost of ransomware attacks globally was $7.5 billion.
  • More than 33% of all cyber-attacks are grounded in ransomware.
  • Every 14 seconds in 2019, a new organization fell victim to ransomware.
  • The average ransomware payment increased to $233,817 in Q3 2020.
  • 51% of organizations were targeted by ransomware in 2020.
  • 59% of ransomware victims paid the ransom demand in the year 2020.
  • More than 4,000 ransomware attacks have occurred every day since the beginning of 2016.
  • Healthcare was the most targeted industry by ransomware in 2020, accounting for 28% of all attacks.
  • 92% of organizations recovered their data via backups without paying the ransom.
  • 50% of cyber security professionals said their organization is unprepared to repel a ransomware attack.
  • Ransomware accounted for 41% of all cyber insurance claims made in H1 2020.
  • Ransomware attacks averaged at around 202.3 million in Q2 2020, an increase of 605% compared to Q1.
  • Half of all ransomware victims are likely to get hit again.
  • 84% of organizations in the US experienced a ransomware attack in the last twelve months.
  • In 2020, the average downtime from a ransomware attack was 21 days.
  • Ryuk ransomware was accountable for a third of all ransomware attacks in 2020.
  • In the first quarter of 2020, the average ransom demand was $111,605.
  • 67% of surveyed companies admitted that they had paid a ransom to recover their data in 2020.
  • 59% of businesses worldwide recognize ransomware as the biggest cyber threat to their industry in 2020.
  • 18 minutes is the average time required to detect a ransomware attack in a med-sized company.

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In our increasingly digital world, cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, posing significant risks to businesses and individuals alike. One of the most alarming and disruptive forms of these threats is ransomware. This blog post will delve into the critical numbers revolving around ransomware attacks, providing an in-depth view of the prevalence, cost, and ramifications associated with these cyber-attacks. Considering ransomware attack statistics can offer insights into the patterns and trends of these threats, enabling us to better understand, predict, and protect ourselves against future attacks.

The Latest Ransomware Attacks Statistics Unveiled

In 2019, the total cost of ransomware attacks globally was $7.5 billion.

Illuminating the monetary magnitude of the issue, the $7.5 billion total cost of global ransomware attacks in 2019 punctuates just how prevalent and impactful these security breaches have become. This compelling figure, presented in the context of a blog post on Ransomware Attacks Statistics, provides a tangible, economic representation of the scale of the problem. It throws into sharp relief the fiscal ramifications while simultaneously serving as a concrete call to action for individuals, businesses, and governments to heed the escalating threat and to enhance cybersecurity measures.

More than 33% of all cyber-attacks are grounded in ransomware.

Substantiating the nefarious rise of digital extortion, the statistic revealing that over a third of all cyber-attacks are rooted in ransomware amplifies its menacing significance. In the context of a blog post on Ransomware Attacks Statistics, it dramatically underlines the magnitude and prevalence of such threats that plagued the cyberspace. Hence, it’s not merely a number but a stark warning to industries, institutions and individuals alike, to prioritize cybersecurity measures, reinforcing the pressing need for robust defenses and constant vigilance against increasingly cunning and destructive ransomware assailants.

Every 14 seconds in 2019, a new organization fell victim to ransomware.

In the grand theater of digital warfare, the statistic – ‘Every 14 seconds in 2019, a new organization fell victim to ransomware’ plays a chilling protagonist, exposing the scale and the intensity of the cyber onslaught organizations were subjected to. This stark figure, not only sketches a grim portrait of the relentless cyber threats businesses across the globe must encounter, but also stands as a potent testament of the dramatic swell in ransomware attacks over the recent years. Nestled in this unforgiving timeline is an urgent clarion call for businesses to prioritize, intensify and innovate their cyber defense measures, thereby breathing life into the dire narrative of a blog post focused on Ransomware Attacks Statistics.

The average ransomware payment increased to $233,817 in Q3 2020.

“The soaring increase in the average ransomware payment to $233,817 in Q3 2020 paints a worrying picture of the current cybersecurity landscape. This sharp rise not only underscores the aggressive tactics adopted by cybercriminals but also signals a pressing problem for businesses and individuals alike. As they are being forced to deal with more costly disruptions, the statistic serves to emphasize the gravity and financial repercussions of ransomware attacks. It not only is a clear indicator of the mounting threat posed by such attacks, but also highlights the necessity for proactive cybersecurity measures, thereby making it a crucial component of any discourse centered around Ransomware Attacks Statistics.”

51% of organizations were targeted by ransomware in 2020.

Presenting a shocking revelation, a substantial 51% of organizations fell victim to ransomware assaults in the year 2020. The gravity of this figure instills a stark realization of the pervasive threat that ransomware poses, thereby assuring the blog readers that the concern is not just theoretical but very real. By shedding light on the prevalence of ransomware invasions, it paints a vivid picture of today’s cybersecurity landscape, reinforces the urgency to act, and the necessity to invest in robust defense mechanisms. It stands as an unmistakable warning to organizations worldwide, urging them to brace themselves for this digital menace. This statistic further accentuates the fact that no organization is immune, and reaffirms why the presentation of such data is of paramount importance in the constant battle against cyber-attacks.

59% of ransomware victims paid the ransom demand in the year 2020.

Highlighting that 59% of ransomware victims caved in to the cyber-criminals’ demands in 2020 underlines the gravity and escalating threat of these insidious cyber attacks. This alarming figure signifies not only the effectiveness of these pervasive attacks but also the dire desperation and vulnerability of the victims. Acknowledging this statistic in a blog post about Ransomware Attacks Statistics can help in emphasizing the need for robust cyber-security measures, increased awareness, and proactive prevention tactics, as most victims feel compelled to pay the ransom to regain control over their compromised data.

More than 4,000 ransomware attacks have occurred every day since the beginning of 2016.

The alarming figure of over 4,000 ransomware attacks per day since the start of 2016 reveals a chilling narrative of the increasing prevalence of cybercrime. This harrowing fact not only emphasizes the expansive magnitude of this cybersecurity menace, but it also underscores the sustained and escalating threat that ransomware poses to both businesses and individuals alike. This illustrative statistic is therefore a potent testament to the ever-present danger of cyber-attacks, an issue that continues to evolve and grow more sophisticated with each passing year.

Healthcare was the most targeted industry by ransomware in 2020, accounting for 28% of all attacks.

Highlighting the staggering revelation that healthcare emerged as the top industry for ransomware attacks in 2020, representing 28% of all such incidents, augments the gravity and urgency surrounding cybersecurity breaches. This figure underscores healthcare’s vulnerability and its magnified effects given the industry’s essential role in public safety. Spurring a significant call for intensified security measures, this encounter with cybersecurity threats sets the tone for an in-depth exploration of the pervading ransomware attack dynamics through vital statistics on our blog post about Ransomware Attacks Statistics.

92% of organizations recovered their data via backups without paying the ransom.

Delving into the world of ransomware attacks, it’s eye-opening to highlight that an overwhelming 92% of organizations sidestepped the financial demands of these digital extortionists by retrieving their critical data via backups. This figure paints a picture of prophylactic resilience, underscoring the paramount importance of robust backup protocols as a potent defense against such costly cyber aggressions. In a landscape where virtual trapdoors can open at a moment’s notice, this statistic showcases that being prepared with comprehensive and methodical data safeguarding strategies can dramatically tilt the scales away from fiscally damaging compliance with these cyber ransom demands.

50% of cyber security professionals said their organization is unprepared to repel a ransomware attack.

Highlighting the startling revelation that half of cyber security professionals deem their organization incapable of fending off a ransomware attack, underpins the urgency and gravity of the ransomware threat landscape. This statistic, serving as a bellwether, brings to light the vulnerabilities many organizations harbor against the maelstrom of cyber threats, reflecting potential inadequacies in current defense mechanisms. Within the discourse around ransomware attack statistics, it heightens awareness of the breadth and depth of security preparedness, galvanizing industry-wide efforts towards building resilient cyber defense frameworks. Amidst escalating ransomware incidents, this figure also constitutes a wake-up call for organizations to rethink and reinvigorate their cybersecurity strategy, thus stressing the pertinence of investment in advanced security technology, and thorough employee training.

Ransomware accounted for 41% of all cyber insurance claims made in H1 2020.

Diving into the depths of the cybercrime landscape, the statistic that ransomware was responsible for a staggering 41% of all cyber insurance claims made in H1 2020 weaves an alarming narrative. It acts as a stark reminder of the escalating threat encompasses by ransomware attacks, representing nearly half of all cyber-related insurance claims within the given period. The escalation reiterated by this figure in a blog post about Ransomware Attacks Statistics could function as an eye-opener for many, spotlighting the financial implications and rampant growth of ransomware attacks in today’s digital-dependent world, inciting individuals, corporations, and governments alike to adopt robust defensive measures.

Ransomware attacks averaged at around 202.3 million in Q2 2020, an increase of 605% compared to Q1.

By shedding light on the precipitous 605% increase in ransomware attacks from Q1 to Q2 2020, averaging at around 202.3 million, this compelling statistic underscores an alarming trend in the cybersecurity landscape. For our readers and the wider collective invested in curtailing digital threats, this catapulting figure serves as a stark warning of the escalating severity and frequency of ransomware offenses. This further emphasizes our obligation to raise awareness, strengthen preventive measures, and hand in hand, equip ourselves with the most advance defense mechanisms against such mitigating cyber threats.

Half of all ransomware victims are likely to get hit again.

Unraveling the ominous complexity of ransomware attack patterns, the revelation that half of all ransomware victims are susceptible to subsequent attacks underscores the relentless persistence of cybercriminals and heightens the sense of urgency for robust cybersecurity measures. Rather than a one-off unfortunate encounter, this alarming statistic intimates that falling prey to a ransomware assault may plunge victims into a vicious cycle of recurring attacks. Therefore, it provides powerful impetus in the blog post, compelling readers to understand that immediate action and strategic intervention are indispensable in preventing ransomware recurrences and shielding their digital domains.

84% of organizations in the US experienced a ransomware attack in the last twelve months.

Delineating a chilling reality in the digital landscape, the statistic ‘84% of US organizations fell prey to a ransomware attack in the last twelve months’ serves as a wake-up call. It vaults the discussion beyond hypothetical scenarios, showcasing the pervasiveness of the threat faced by businesses. In a blog post centered on ransomware attack statistics, this figure underscores the urgency for robust cybersecurity measures. The high incidence hints at the possibility that, without effective countermeasures, organizations across the spectrum are more likely to encounter such crippling attacks, disrupting not only their functionality but also posing serious financial and reputational risks.

In 2020, the average downtime from a ransomware attack was 21 days.

Drawing our attention towards the unnerving fact: in 2020, ransomware attacks plunged cyber entities into a 21-day average period of inactivity. This figure is critical, particularly in a digital society dependent on constant uptime, emphasizing the damaging reach of ransomware. Not only does it reflect the arduous recovery process in the aftermath of an attack, but it also underlines the substantial operational disruption and consequential financial losses businesses can face. In a world governed by data, this statistic serves as a stark reminder of the intense consequences of ransomware attacks, reinforcing the escalating urgency for proactive cybersecurity measures.

Ryuk ransomware was accountable for a third of all ransomware attacks in 2020.

Highlighting the predominance of Ryuk ransomware—the culprit behind a considerable one-third of all ransomware attacks in 2020—serves as a compelling reminder of the continuously evolving cyber threat landscape in our reflection on Ransomware Attacks Statistics. Not only does it underscore the centrality of Ryuk within the narrative of cyber crimes, but it also prompts a critical reevaluation of existing cybersecurity measures. In providing a quantifiable perspective on its widespread impact, this statistic also seeks to jolt organizations into recognizing, prioritizing, and addressing the urgent need for robust, proactive defenses against not just Ryuk, but all potential cyber threats.

In the first quarter of 2020, the average ransom demand was $111,605.

On the battleground of cybersecurity, the striking figure of $111,605, the average ransom demanded in the first quarter of 2020, paints a vivid picture of the ransomware pandemic. This astronomical value showcases the financial muscularity cybercriminals are wielding when leveraging ransomware attacks – underlining the severe threat they pose to businesses and institutions. As the price tag for a safe return of data escalates, it serves as a compelling reminder of the increasing sophistication and audacity of these digital mercenaries, making the need for robust cybersecurity measures more urgent than ever.

67% of surveyed companies admitted that they had paid a ransom to recover their data in 2020.

Infusing life into the stark reality of ransomware prevalence, the statistic that 67% of surveyed companies confessed to paying a ransom to reclaim their data in 2020 serves as a chilling testament to the escalating cyber threat landscape. Not only does it underscore the persuasive power these malicious attacks possess, enforcing even resilient corporations into submission, but it also illuminates the fraught cost-benefit analysis businesses find themselves facing when victimized. Such revealing data emphasizes the urgency for stringent cybersecurity measures and lends weight to the narrative of the blog post, highlighting the pervasive grip of Ransomware attacks in the digital realm.

59% of businesses worldwide recognize ransomware as the biggest cyber threat to their industry in 2020.

In an atmosphere of burgeoning cyber threats, the revelation that 59% of global businesses pinpoint ransomware as their paramount risk in 2020 offers a striking commentary on the depth and severity of this specific issue. Positioned within a blog post that focus on Ransomware Attack Statistics, this number elucidates the sheer scale and pervading influence of ransomware over an array of industries. It underscores the urgency and importance of investing in robust security measures and preventive strategies, highlighting the universal recognition of ransomware not just as a potential threat, but as a tangible hazard wielding a significant impact on business continuity and data integrity. This statistic not only quantifies the problem, but elevates it, driving home the reality that ransomware is no longer an abstract or secondary concern, but foremost in the minds of the majority in the corporate arena.

18 minutes is the average time required to detect a ransomware attack in a med-sized company.

Shedding light on the intensity of the cybersecurity landscape, the statistic – ‘ 18 minutes being the average time required to detect a ransomware attack in a medium-sized company’, is a stark symbol of the rapid-fire progression and potency of ransomware attacks. This relatively short detection time, combined with the rising frequency of such assaults, underscores the pressing need for firms to be poised and primed with adept defense mechanisms. Within this brief window, significant loss of sensitive data, financial damage and disruptions to business operations can happen, intensifying the crux of safeguarding companies within the post’s topic – Ransomware Attacks Statistics. With every passing minute, the potential wreckage deepens, thus the statistic exemplifies the urgency and the importance of immediate detection and fast, effective response to these attacks.

Conclusion

Ransomware attacks have surged significantly, emphasizing a growing threat in the digital age. Statistics distinctly indicate an escalating trend in both the frequency and severity of these attacks. The increasingly sophisticated techniques employed by cybercriminals imply a need for strengthened defenses. As witnessed, no sector is immune, with healthcare, education, and government institutions to private companies all falling prey to such assaults. Thus, it’s critical for organizations to prioritize rigorous cybersecurity measures, continuous systems update, and robust contingency plans to mitigate potential damages and safeguard crucial data.

References

0. – https://www.www.journalofaccountancy.com

1. – https://www.www.coveware.com

2. – https://www.techjury.net

3. – https://www.cybersecurityventures.com

4. – https://www.www.netdiligence.com

5. – https://www.sentinelone.com

6. – https://www.cybersecurity.berkeley.edu

7. – https://www.www.statista.com

8. – https://www.cyware.com

9. – https://www.www.barracuda.com

10. – https://www.www.zdnet.com

11. – https://www.www.emsisoft.com

12. – https://www.www.sophos.com

13. – https://www.www.welivesecurity.com

14. – https://www.www.crowdstrike.com

15. – https://www.www.darkreading.com

16. – https://www.www.msspalert.com

FAQs

What is a ransomware attack?

A ransomware attack is a type of cybersecurity threat where malicious software, or malware, is used to encrypt a victim's files. The attacker then demands a ransom from the victim to restore access to the data upon payment.

How does ransomware spread?

Ransomware can spread through various methods such as phishing emails, 'malvertising' on compromised websites, infected software apps, and through distributed networks using certain vulnerabilities in an operating system or networking equipment.

How can we prevent ransomware attacks?

Preventing ransomware involves a combination of good cybersecurity habits like regularly updating and patching systems, installing reliable antivirus software, avoiding suspicious emails or links, and regularly backing up important data offline or on a separate network.

What should one do if their system is infected with ransomware?

If a system is infected, it's recommended to disconnect from the network to avoid spreading of the ransomware, report to the local authorities, and consult a cybersecurity expert. It's generally not advised to pay the ransom as it doesn't guarantee that the files will be recovered.

How prevalent are ransomware attacks?

Ransomware attacks are a significant threat in the digital world. The frequency of attacks has been increasing year over year, targeting businesses, government agencies, and even individuals. According to Emsisoft, 2020 saw a 62% increase in ransomware attacks worldwide compared to the previous year.

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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