Ransomware: How to Prevent, Detect, and Respond to Threats | 2025

Ransomware has grown exponentially in recent years, positioning itself as one of the main threats to organizations globally. 

According to a report by Cybersecurity Ventures, it is estimated that a ransomware attack occurs every 10 seconds worldwide, leading companies to lose billions of dollars annually. 

Additionally, ransomware attacks are expected to generate global losses exceeding $265 billion by 2031. These attacks, which encrypt a company’s data and demand a ransom for its release, can paralyze operations, compromise sensitive information, and cause severe damage to the company’s reputation. 

As cybercriminals’ tactics become more sophisticated, it is essential for companies to have advanced protection against ransomware and other cyber threats to ensure the security of their critical information. 

Here we explain how there are solutions that can be key to defending against these types of attacks, helping to prevent, detect, and effectively respond to these increasingly dangerous threats. 

What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malware that, once it has infected a system, encrypts files and demands a payment, usually in cryptocurrencies, to restore access to the hijacked information. 

This type of attack is especially devastating because it blocks access to the organization’s critical data, which can halt operations completely and generate significant economic losses.

Additionally, cybercriminals often set strict deadlines for the ransom payment, increasing the pressure on the victims. 

Evolution of the Threat: From Simple Extortion to Double Hijacking

Initially, ransomware attacks consisted of blocking access to data by encrypting it and demanding a ransom in exchange for the decryption key. 

However, cybercriminals have refined their approach and now not only encrypt data but also exfiltrate sensitive information from the victim. 

This allows them to exert additional pressure: they threaten to make the stolen data public if a second ransom is not paid, which severely affects the company’s reputation and the privacy of its customers. 

In 2023, it was estimated that 70% of ransomware attacks involved some form of data exfiltration, making this tactic one of the most common in the current threat landscape. 

Impact of Ransomware on Organizations

Check out these alarming figures, which highlight the importance of companies strengthening their cybersecurity strategy, focusing on the prevention and detection of these threats before they materialize: 

• 37% of organizations worldwide suffered a ransomware attack in 2021. 
• The average ransom payment has increased, reaching $1.82 million in 2023. 

Types of Ransomware

Over time, ransomware has taken various forms that vary in their attack method and how they affect victims. These different types of ransomware represent complex threats, each with unique characteristics that determine their spread, damage, and mitigation difficulty.

Below, we explore the main types of ransomware that currently pose a significant risk to organizations. 

Type	Description	Characteristics	Examples
Crypto Ransomware	Encrypts important files on the infected system, preventing access to them.	Its goal is to make the files irrecoverable without paying a ransom.	CryptoLocker, WannaCry
Locker Ransomware	Blocks access to the entire system but does not encrypt individual files.	Prevents the use of the device, displaying a ransom payment screen.	WinLock
Scareware	Warns the user of a supposed false infection, asking for payment to fix it.	Generally includes false and exaggerated warning messages to intimidate.	Rogue AV, System Repair
Doxware / Leakware	Threatens to leak stolen sensitive information if the ransom is not paid.	Focused on companies with confidential information, such as personal data or trade secrets.	Maze, REvil
Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS)	Business model where ransomware developers rent their software to other criminals.	Allows attackers without technical knowledge to carry out attacks through a pay-for-service model.	DarkSide, Sodinokibi
Double Extortion	Combines file encryption with the threat of leaking stolen data.	Increases pressure on the victim by threatening their reputation and regulatory compliance.	NetWalker, DoppelPaymer

Importance of Knowing the Types of Ransomware

Understanding the different types of ransomware allows organizations to implement appropriate defense strategies. 

Each type of ransomware requires different solutions and responses, from the use of encryption technologies to the implementation of advanced solutions that provide comprehensive protection across multiple vectors, such as emails and endpoints. 

How Threat Protect Works to Prevent Threats

Ikusi Threat Protect is an advanced protection service that provides an additional layer of security to protect the Internet, endpoints, and emails. 

This solution, which combines proactive detection and immediate response, is ideal for combating ransomware and other advanced threats. Its main features are: 

1. Continuous Monitoring: Monitors all activities within the network and connected devices 24/7. 
2. Early Threat Detection: Uses AI to identify malicious behavior patterns before they can cause damage. 
3. Comprehensive Endpoint Protection: Secures every device connected to the network, blocking attempts to execute malware such as ransomware. 
4. Email Security: Detects and eliminates malicious emails containing compromised links or attachments, one of the most common entry points for ransomware. 
5. Automated Response: Ability to immediately isolate infected devices to prevent the malware from spreading within the organization. 

Ransomware and other cyber threats are an increasingly common reality in today’s digital environment. 

No matter the size of the organization, all are potentially vulnerable. 

At Ikusi, we offer a comprehensive solution that protects your digital infrastructure, endpoints, and communications. If you are looking to strengthen your company’s cybersecurity and stay one step ahead of threats, we invite you to learn more about our Ikusi Threat Protect service.