Ransomware attacks hit record-breaking volumes in first half of 2021

The number of Ransomware attacks recorded in the first half of 2021 has already exceeded the entire volume of attacks in 2020.

Cyber security company, SonicWall, has released a report stating that global ransomware volume hit 304.7 million in the first half of 2021, surpassing last year’s full total of 304.6 million.

April, May, and June have been record-breaking months in terms of ransomware volume. In June 2021, SonicWall recorded 78.4 million ransomware attacks, with startling spikes in the US (185%) and the UK (144%). Germany, South Africa, and Brazil also all recorded huge volumes of attacks.

The most targeted for ransomware attacks include government (917% increase), education (615%), healthcare (594%) and retail (264%). Ryuk, Cerber and SamSam were the three most common, making up almost two-thirds (64%) of all recorded ransomware attacks.

Hackers have evidently come up with new tools, as SonicWall reports that it identified “record numbers” of unrecognisable malware, up to 54%.

“This latest data shows that sophisticated threat actors are tirelessly adapting their tactics and embracing ransomware to reap financial gain and sow discord,” said SonicWall president and CEO Bill Conner.

“With remote working still widespread, businesses continue to be highly exposed to risk, and criminals are acutely aware of uncertainty across the cyber landscape. It’s crucial that organizations move toward a modern Boundless Cybersecurity approach to protect against both known and unknown threats, particularly when everyone is more remote, more mobile and less secure than ever.”