Ransomware Threats: Old and New Attacks Still Evade Protection

What is scarier than horror movies? Ransomware that never stops. We purchase security tools, we patch systems, we educate people—and yet attackers are still in your system. It feels like they are one step ahead, doesn't it?

Why Ransomware Still Works​

Ransomware has been around for many years, and it is not going anywhere; it keeps evolving like a video game. Older flavors of ransomware still deliver massive payout amounts, and new strains keep popping up.

Why Is Ransomware So Successful?​

• Cybercriminals continue to create different code so that security tools don't detect it.
• Cybercriminals just buy it on the internet RaaS (Ransomware-as-a-Service).
• Users still make mistakes—weak passwords, poor email habits, updates slow or not completed.

You'd think after all these years we would have it figured out, right? Nope.

New Types Of Attacks​

Here's the real scary part: new ransomware groups don't even need to be tactical smart—the just buy access to networks that they have stolen and just enter.

Attack groups:

• Attack small businesses just like any other size.
• Will steal your data and lock your files so you pay them twice.
• Target remote tools like VPNs and other work apps that usually have weak security.

Think you are too small for anyone to notice? Think again.

Why Defenses Fail​

Let’s face it: defenses are way too slow. Most tools that block ransomware typically only block malware they have seen before, but new versions slip right past. With the cleverness of their code, even AI systems can be fooled.

But here is the truth:

• Hackers need only win once.
• Defenders must win every time.

And that is why it feels and seems hopeless against ransomware.

What Actually Helps​

There is no silver bullet, but here is what really works:

• Backups are most important. Store a copy offline, preferably a number of them, so hackers can’t teach them.
• Update everything as often as possible. Make it a new morning habit.
• Train your teams. Most cyber attacks start by a single person clicking on a bad email.
• Use zero trust. Never assume it is safe until you verify it is.

Final Thoughts​

Ransomware isn't going anywhere. Some varieties are familiar, and others are new, but they are all, to some degree, unstoppable. The flip side is that we don't have to be perfect. If we back up, respond quickly, and make attacks less profitable to hackers, they will hunt other targets.