Decoding the Ransom: When to Resist, When to Pay
Ransomware attacks are no longer rare—they’re happening to businesses across the globe, from hospitals to manufacturing plants. These aren’t just about getting money; they’re attacks on operations, data, and trust. In 2021, the average ransom demand hit over $570,000, and that number hasn’t gone down. Modern ransomware isn’t just about locking files. Attackers now use a mix of tactics
Deciding whether to pay is never easy. You have to look at what happens if you don’t pay—how long it takes to recover, how much downtime you suffer, and how your reputation tanks. But there’s another side
The Four Pillars of Ransomware Damage (LEDS)
- Lockdown: Ransomware locks systems and files, cutting off access. Once that happens, business stops. Employees can’t work. Systems go dark. The attacker holds the key—literally—and demands payment to let you back in.
- Encryption: Modern ransomware uses strong encryption that scrambles data. Without the key, files are useless. The more advanced the encryption, the harder it is to recover data, even if you get a decryption tool later.
- Deletion or Data Theft: Some attacks don’t just encrypt—they wipe files completely. Others steal data and sell it on the dark web. Either way, the damage is deeper and recovery is harder.
- Blackmail & Threat Amplification: After breaking in, attackers keep pushing. Pop-up warnings, threats of public data leaks, and claims of future attacks create pressure. They don’t just want one payment—they want you to pay fast and keep paying.
A proactive cybersecurity posture—strong defenses, regular backups, and a clear incident response plan—is the only real way to reduce risk and protect what matters most.
