Ransomware remains one of the most damaging, disruptive forms of cybercrime. The issue is that attackers are not standing still. They continue to evolve their techniques, targeting businesses of every size and industry.
From data loss to downtime, it can impact both small companies and global enterprises. To stay ahead, businesses must adopt proactive strategies that anticipate the next wave of ransomware, and not simply react after an incident occurs.
Understand the Changing Threat Landscape
Recent incidents have shown that no organization is immune. In June 2025, supplier United Natural Foods Inc. suffered an attack that halted deliveries to 30,000+ North American grocery stores.
The ransomware threat is no longer simple file encryption. Today’s attackers use layered methods to maximize pressure on victims. Common tactics now include:
• Double extortion: Attackers steal sensitive data before encrypting systems. They threaten to leak the data if the ransom isn’t paid.
• Triple extortion: In addition to double extortion, attackers pressure business partners, other stakeholders, or even customers to force compliance.
• Targeted ransomware campaigns: Instead of broad attacks, criminals increasingly go after specific industries like healthcare and retail.
• Initial access brokers: Some attackers purchase stolen credentials or exploit kits, making it easier to bypass defenses quickly.
When you recognize these evolving methods, you take the first step in building effective defenses.
Strengthen Core Security Practices
To prevent ransomware, you need to begin with fundamental cybersecurity hygiene. Patching systems. Updating software. Disabling unused services. Do all this on a regular basis, and it significantly reduces exploitable vulnerabilities.
That’s just the start. Strong password policies and multi-factor authentication assist in securing identities, which are often prime targets for phishing and credential theft. Backups also remain critical, but they must be encrypted and stored offline to avoid being compromised in an attack.
These measures seem basic, sure, yet they form the foundation of ransomware resilience.
Train Employees to Recognize Threats
Human error. This remains one of the leading causes of successful ransomware infections.
From phishing emails to malicious SMS links, these tactics continue to trick users into opening the door for attackers. Through the implementation of ongoing security awareness training, employees can identify suspicious activity and know how to report it correctly. Plus, simulation exercises, think mock phishing campaigns, can reinforce best practices and spotlight areas where further education is necessary.
Leverage Advanced Security Support
For many organizations, achieving 24/7 threat monitoring is a major challenge. The problem: attackers do not operate on business hours, and gaps in detection usually result in devastating consequences.
This is where managed detection and response providers play a key supporting role.
Managed detection and response (MDR) services combine advanced analytics with expert threat hunters to monitor endpoints, cloud environments, and identities in real time. By detecting suspicious activity early, MDR providers support businesses in containing ransomware before it spreads. It’s a valuable safety net for overstretched IT teams.
Final Thoughts
Ransomware preparation is imperative for any business. By investing in layered defenses, employee training, and continuous monitoring, you can build trust and resilience that sets you apart from less prepared competitors.
