Ransomware Threats Are Evolving. Here’s What Your Business Needs to Know

By Ian Horne, CEO of VectorCyber

For small and mid-sized businesses, cyber threats are no longer a distant concern. They're a daily reality. One of the most persistent and damaging threats we continue to track is ransomware. At VectorCyber, we closely monitor research and threat intelligence from leading sources, including Palo Alto Networks’ Unit 42, to keep our clients ahead of the curve.

Here’s the bottom line: ransomware attacks are becoming more frequent, more complex, and more damaging.

Cybercriminals are getting bolder. Some are backed by nation-states; others are low-level affiliates with access to powerful malware tools. No matter their background, they share a common goal—disrupt your operations and pressure you into paying up.

And unfortunately, it’s not just about locking you out of your data anymore. Even companies with strong backups are being targeted. Why? Because attackers have shifted tactics. Today's ransomware groups are just as likely to leak sensitive files online or threaten your reputation to extract payment, even if your data is safely backed up..

So what can you do?

Stay Informed

Know what’s out there. Reports like Unit 42’s Global Incident Response Report provide crucial insights into how these attacks unfold and what trends are emerging.

Use a Layered Defense Strategy

No single tool or fix is enough. We recommend a "defense-in-depth" approach—multiple layers of protection that reduce your risk at every level. This includes endpoint security, regular software updates, employee training, and access controls.

Prepare for the Worst

Backups are essential, but not a silver bullet. Your incident response plan should consider scenarios beyond data loss, including reputation management, regulatory reporting, and customer communication.

At VectorCyber, we specialize in cybersecurity solutions designed for small and mid-sized businesses. We understand your challenges, and we’re here to help you protect what you’ve worked hard to build.

If you’re unsure where your vulnerabilities lie, let’s talk. A quick consultation can help you assess your risk and build a roadmap to better security.