The Ransomware Pandemic
The Story
Cybercriminals use malware to encrypt victims' files and demand ransom payments (usually in cryptocurrency) for the decryption key. The attacks have evolved from targeting individuals to crippling hospitals, pipelines (Colonial Pipeline), meat processors (JBS), and entire cities. The rise of 'Ransomware-as-a-Service' has made sophisticated attacks available to less technical criminals.
🚩 Red Flags
- Unpatched software and poor cybersecurity hygiene
- Employees clicking phishing email links
- Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) exposed to the internet
- Lack of offline data backups
- Payment demanded in cryptocurrency with tight deadlines
⚖️ The Fallout
Billions paid in ransoms, critical infrastructure disrupted, patient care endangered, businesses bankrupted. Has become a national security threat. Some groups specifically avoid Russian-language countries, suggesting state tolerance.
📚 Lessons Learned
Backup your data OFFLINE. Cybersecurity is not just an IT issue - it's a core business risk. Paying ransoms fuels the cycle and doesn't guarantee data recovery.
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