Ransomware Trends in 2021 & Predictions for 2022
Ransomware is one of the most dangerous cybersecurity threats facing organisations globally. Attackers focus on any organization of any size, so every business should be aware of ransomware and its potential damage. 2021 saw an all-time high in ransomware attacks. SMBs, schools, global supply chains, healthcare providers, government organisations, and MSPs were among those affected by ransomware attacks. This guide will discuss some of the ransomware trends found in 2021, predictions for 2022, and how to protect your organisation from these crippling attacks.
Ransomware in 2021
2021 was an all-time high of ransomware attacks. Not surprising, 2021 was the most costly and dangerous year on record based on the sheer volume of ransomware attacks. In a SonicWall report, they reported 500 million attempts of ransomware attacks in 2021. According to the 2021 “Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report”, approximately 37 percent of global organisations said they were the victim of some form of ransomware attack in 2021. In 2021, it’s estimated that 30,000 websites were hacked daily, and 64% of companies worldwide experienced at least one form of a cyberattack (Techjury). Many large, popular enterprises were targeted in 2021 with ransomware being a primary payload, making major headlines when these organisations were unable to function or were forced to halt production until they recovered. However, it was the Small to Medium businesses who really took the brunt.