The ransomware threat is on the rise, with a 73% increase in activity between 2022 and 2023, and 55 new ransomware groups identified in 2024. Organizations need a robust defense plan, which includes preparation, securing workloads and endpoints, updating incident response procedures, and considering strategies such as off-site data storage, 3-2-1 backup rule, security awareness training, and limiting privileges and access. Preparing for ransom payment may also be necessary, involving key stakeholders like legal counsel and insurers.

Ways to ward off hackers
Jeffrey Bowie was arrested for trying to install malware into computers at SSM St. Anthony’s Hospital, Oklahoma City. Tech consulting firm Coffey & Consult noted