Ransomware Attacks Surge 75% in 2025 — What SMBs Need to Know

Ransomware attacks have increased by 75% year-over-year according to the latest cybersecurity reports, and small to mid-sized businesses are the primary targets. The trend shows no signs of slowing as we move through 2026.

Why SMBs Are in the Crosshairs

Cybercriminals have shifted their focus from large enterprises — which have invested heavily in security — to smaller organizations that often lack dedicated IT security teams. The average ransom demand for SMBs has risen to $250,000, up from $150,000 just two years ago.

Key Trends Driving the Surge

• AI-Generated Phishing — Attackers are using AI to craft highly convincing phishing emails that bypass traditional filters.
• Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) — Criminal organizations now sell ready-made ransomware kits, lowering the barrier to entry.
• Supply Chain Attacks — Targeting vendors and managed service providers to reach multiple businesses at once.
• Double Extortion — Encrypting data and threatening to leak it publicly if the ransom isn't paid.

What Your Business Should Do Now

1. Implement multi-factor authentication across all systems.
2. Maintain offline, air-gapped backups tested monthly.
3. Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools.
4. Conduct regular employee security awareness training.
5. Partner with a managed security provider for 24/7 monitoring.

The cost of prevention is a fraction of the cost of recovery. Businesses that take a proactive approach to cybersecurity are far less likely to become victims.