Ransomware Menace: From Digital Threats to Real-World Fear Tactics
Ransomware gangs are upping the ante by threatening physical violence to force payments. “I’m afraid of what’s next,” says Semperis’ breach response director. With 40% of surveyed professionals reporting physical threats, these digital delinquents are proving they’re not just keyboard warriors anymore.
Hot Take:
Ransomware gangs are not only taking your lunch money; now they’re threatening to swirly your whole family! From locking systems to laying down some serious Godfather vibes with threats of physical harm, these cybercriminals seem to have taken inspiration from a mobster movie instead of just sticking to their keyboards. What’s next, a horse head in your bed if you don’t pay up? It’s time to buckle up, folks. The cybercriminals have gone full-blown Hollywood villain on us!
Key Points:
- Ransomware gangs are threatening physical violence against employees and their families.
- 52% of attacks still involve traditional threats like system lockouts and data destruction.
- 40% of IT professionals reported receiving physical threats from attackers.
- 78% of businesses hit by ransomware in the past year, with many suffering multiple attacks.
- Despite paying ransoms, 15% didn’t receive usable decryption keys, and 3% had their data leaked.