Ransomware isn’t slowing down. In fact, 2025 saw a 67% increase in ransomware attacks targeting small and mid-size businesses. Attackers know that smaller companies have weaker defenses and are more likely to pay. Here’s what you need to know going into 2026.
How Modern Ransomware Works
Forget the old model of “click a bad link, files get encrypted.” Today’s ransomware gangs operate like businesses. They buy access to your network from initial access brokers, spend days or weeks mapping your environment, disable your backups, and then encrypt everything simultaneously. Some also steal data first and threaten to publish it — double extortion.
Why Small Businesses Are Prime Targets
- Smaller security budgets = fewer defenses
- Less likely to have dedicated security staff
- More likely to pay because they can’t afford extended downtime
- Often have cyber insurance, which attackers know about
What Actually Protects You
- Immutable Backups — Backups that can’t be encrypted or deleted, even by an admin account. This is your nuclear option — if everything else fails, you can still recover. Learn about our backup solutions.
- EDR, Not Just Antivirus — Traditional antivirus misses modern ransomware. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools watch for suspicious behavior patterns, not just known signatures.
- Network Segmentation — If ransomware gets into your accounting department, it shouldn’t be able to reach your production servers. Proper segmentation limits the blast radius.
- Email Filtering — Phishing is still the #1 entry point. Advanced email security catches malicious attachments and links that basic filters miss.
- MFA Everywhere — Multi-factor authentication on everything. Email, VPN, admin panels, cloud services. No exceptions.
If You Get Hit
Disconnect affected systems immediately. Don’t turn them off — disconnect them from the network. Call your IT provider (or call us). Don’t try to negotiate with attackers yourself. And don’t pay unless you’ve exhausted every other option — payment funds the next attack.
Your best defense is preparation. See our cybersecurity services.
