46% of UK ransomware victims paid the ransom to restore access to their data last year, according to a global study of 15,000 consumers conducted by global security company Kaspersky. Yet for 11% of those, paying the ransom did not guarantee the return of stolen data. However, as publicawareness of potential cyberthreats grows, there is reason for optimism in the fight against ransomware.
Ransomware is a type of malware that criminals use to extort money. It holds data to ransom using encryption or by locking users out of their device. Whether they paid or not, only 18% of UK victims were able to restore all their encrypted or blocked files following an attack. Over half (55%) lost at least some files, 35% lost a significant amount, and 20% lost a small number of files. Meanwhile, 13% who did experience such an incident lost almost all their data.
“This data shows we have seen a significant proportion of consumers paying a ransom for their data over the past 12 months. But handing over money doesn’t guarantee the return of data, and only encourages cybercriminals to continue the practice. Therefore, we always recommend that those affected by ransomware do not pay as that money supports this scheme to thrive,” comments Marina Titova, Head of Consumer Product Marketing at Kaspersky. “Instead, consumers should make sure to invest in initial protection and security for their devices and regularly back up all data. This will make the attack itself less appealing or lucrative to cybercriminals, reducing the use of the practice, and presenting a safer future for web users.”
At present, around 30% of those surveyed claimed they were aware of ransomware over the past 12 months. It’s important that this number rises as remote working becomes more prolific. To better help consumers protect themselves as they learn more about this form of cyberattack, it is vital that they understand what to look out for, and what to do if they encounter ransomware.
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Kaspersky is a global cybersecurity company founded in 1997. Kaspersky’s deep threat intelligence and security expertise is constantly transforming into innovative security solutions and services to protect businesses, critical infrastructure, governments and consumers around the globe. The company’s comprehensive security portfolio includes leading endpoint protection and a number of specialized security solutions and services to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats. Over 400 million users are protected by Kaspersky technologies and we help 250,000 corporate clients protect what matters most to them. Learn more at www.kaspersky.com.