Resource Guide: Defending Against Ransomware

Ransomware attacks have been front and center in the news recently due to high-profile breaches that have impacted businesses across the globe. These headline grabbing attacks have been part of a larger global increase in ransomware crime. With a dramatic increase in security challenges due to the disruptions caused in part by the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a significant increase in ransomware attacks. In 2020 there was an estimated 150% increase in ransomware attacks and 2021 has seen this activity continue to trend standard¹. This surge in ransomware activity has left many businesses and governments around the world scrambling for answers as they struggle to stay a step ahead of organized cybercriminal gangs. These cyber threats are very real and require immediate action to better protect against these ongoing criminal activities. In this resource guide, PCI Security Standards Council shares key considerations and educational resources to help better understand and protect against ransomware attacks.

(1): Sharton , Brenda R. “Ransomware Attacks Are Spiking. Is Your Company Prepared?” Harvard Business Review, June 2, 2021. https://hbr.org/2021/05/ransomware-attacks-are-spiking-is-your-company-prepared.