Ransomware attacks reached unprecedented levels in 2024, with cybersecurity experts reporting a staggering 11% increase in global incidents, totaling over 5,400 attacks. Recent ransomware strains like RansomHub, LockBit 4.0, Qilin, and DarkVault caused billions in damages last year, and the threat continues to evolve in 2025. When faced with a ransomware attack, knowing exactly what to do in the first critical hours can mean the difference between a manageable incident and a catastrophic business failure.
Understanding the Modern Ransomware Threat
Today’s ransomware landscape is more sophisticated than ever. Groups like RansomHub emerged as the most active gang in 2024, while established players like LockBit announced version 4.0 in late 2024. These attacks aren’t just about encryption anymore – modern ransomware employs “double and triple extortion” tactics, threatening to leak stolen data and attack business partners if victims don’t comply.
SOS Ransomware, a leading cybersecurity firm specializing in ransomware recovery, emphasizes that immediate action is crucial when determining what to do against a ransomware attack ? The first moments after discovery determine whether an organization can contain the damage or faces complete network compromise.
Step 1: Immediate Containment and Isolation
The moment you suspect a ransomware infection, isolation is your top priority. CISA strongly recommends determining which systems are impacted and immediately isolating them. This means:
- Disconnect infected devices from the network immediately by unplugging network cables or disabling Wi-Fi
- If multiple systems appear compromised, take the entire network offline at the switch level
- Do not shut down infected machines immediately – this can destroy valuable forensic evidence stored in memory
- Label all encrypted systems to prevent accidental reactivation during recovery
Time is critical during containment. Ransomware operators actively try to spread their malware while response teams work to shut down systems, creating a race against time.
Step 2: Activate Your Incident Response Team
Establish a dedicated incident response team immediately. This should include core CSIRT members, legal representatives, and extended team members depending on the incident’s scope. Key responsibilities include:
- Documenting all findings systematically for later analysis and legal requirements
- Coordinating communication with internal stakeholders without revealing sensitive information
- Managing external communications including regulatory notifications
- Overseeing technical recovery efforts
Step 3: Identify the Ransomware Strain
Determining the specific ransomware variant is crucial for recovery planning. Look for identifying characteristics like graphical interfaces, HTML files, contact emails in encrypted file extensions, or distinctive wallpaper changes.
Upload any indicators of compromise to identification services like Crypto Sheriff or ID Ransomware. Some strains have available decryption tools, particularly older variants that law enforcement has already cracked.
Step 4: Secure Your Backups
Your backup systems are your lifeline. Modern ransomware deliberately targets backup files, attempting to encrypt or delete them. Immediately:
- Disconnect all backup systems from the network
- Verify backup integrity before attempting restoration
- Scan backups thoroughly for malware before deployment
- Disable automated maintenance tasks that might interfere with investigation
Step 5: Assessment and Communication
Conduct a thorough impact assessment while maintaining clear communication channels. Always report ransomware attacks to law enforcement – they may provide decryption tools or prevent future attacks. Consider:
- Regulatory notification requirements – GDPR requires notification within 72 hours
- Customer and partner communications to maintain trust
- Insurance claim initiation if cyber insurance is available
- Media relations strategy to protect organizational reputation
Step 6: Recovery and Restoration
Recovery should prioritize critical systems first. Reconnect systems and restore data from offline, encrypted backups based on critical service prioritization, taking care not to re-infect clean systems. Best practices include:
- Creating isolated recovery environments (new VLANs) for testing
- Verifying system cleanliness before full network reintegration
- Implementing enhanced monitoring during recovery phases
- Conducting thorough security audits before resuming normal operations
The Payment Dilemma
Should you pay the ransom? Research from 2024 showed that 84% of victims who paid ransoms didn’t receive their data back uncorrupted, and 78% of organizations that paid suffered repeat attacks. Payment typically funds further criminal activity and provides no guarantee of data recovery.
Prevention for the Future
Post-incident strengthening is essential. Implement multi-layered defense strategies including employee training, regular security updates, and threat intelligence monitoring. Key measures include:
- Regular backup testing and validation
- Network segmentation and zero-trust architecture
- Employee security awareness training
- Vulnerability management programs
- Incident response plan updates based on lessons learned
Conclusion
Ransomware attacks continue to evolve in sophistication and frequency in 2025. With average extortion demands having exceeded $5.2 million in 2024 and total payments reaching nearly $460 million last year, the stakes have never been higher. Successful ransomware response requires preparation, swift action, and expert guidance. Organizations must develop comprehensive response plans, train their teams, and establish relationships with cybersecurity experts who can provide immediate assistance when attacks occur.
The key to surviving ransomware isn’t just hoping it won’t happen – it’s being prepared when it does. Contact specialized ransomware sevice for advices.
