Ransomware has evolved from being a simple virus in the 1980s to a complex, global threat that costs billions of dollars annually. Advances in technology have allowed for more complex, destructive attacks, often demanding ransom in cryptocurrencies. In recent years, ransomware has become a significant geopolitical threat, targeting large organisations and critical infrastructure, such as the Colonial Pipeline attack. Experts believe that future developments will include more attacks on critical infrastructure, the increased use of AI, and more sophisticated double-extortion tactics.
65% of the 100 largest US hospitals and health systems have had a recent data breach
Healthcare data breaches hit a record high in 2024, impacting the equivalent of 81.38% of the U.S. population. Despite handling sensitive patient data, healthcare organizations
