Ransomware Threat | Biggest Ransomware Payout Ever Revealed – Technologist

The Dark Angels ransomware gang has set a chilling new record with a $75 million ransom payout from an undisclosed victim earlier this year, according to the latest Zscaler ThreatLabz ransomware report. This staggering amount, nearly double the previous record, underscores the escalating ransomware threat businesses face from sophisticated cyber criminal groups. For any business owner who was doubting how a ransomware threat could seriously harm their organisation, this latest story serves as a big warning.

The Growing Ransomware Epidemic

Ransomware attacks are increasingly rampant, with the Zscaler report highlighting an 18% year-on-year rise. Sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and technology are particularly vulnerable, with manufacturing suffering the brunt of these attacks. Geographically, the U.S. leads in ransomware incidents, experiencing a 93% increase over the past year but this is becoming a global issue.

Who are the notorious Dark Angels?

Emerging as a significant cyber criminal and ransomware threat, the Dark Angels are a rebranded faction of the notorious Babuk ransomware family. Known for their highly targeted attacks, the Dark Angels avoid mass attacks, focusing instead on high-value targets. Their infamous attack on Johnson Controls in September 2023, which involved locking the company’s VMware ESXi servers and demanding a $51 million ransom, exemplifies their precision and impact.

Stay Ahead of the Threat

The Dark Angels’ strategy of targeting select, high-value organisations is a warning to all businesses in all industries. This approach not only increases the potential payout for the attackers but also heightens the risk for businesses, making robust cyber security measures more critical than ever for organisations who are looking to protect their data.

Secure the future of your business today

Don’t wait for an attack to compromise your business. Strengthen your defences against ransomware with our expert cyber security services. Contact us to learn more about how we can protect your organisation from the ever-evolving cyber threats.