The State of Ransomware in 2025
Ransomware has become one of the most disruptive threats facing companies worldwide — and Cyprus is no exception. In recent years, we’ve seen attacks spread from multinational corporations to local SMEs, with devastating consequences.
For businesses in Cyprus, understanding how ransomware works, why it’s on the rise, and what to do about it is essential for survival in 2025.
Key trends to watch in 2025:
Ransomware is no longer limited to large-scale attacks. Cybercriminals have shifted tactics, increasingly targeting smaller organizations that often lack advanced protection. In Cyprus, financial services, law firms, healthcare providers, and even small retailers have been affected.
- Double extortion tactics: attackers not only lock your files but also threaten to leak sensitive data.
- Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS): criminals now rent out ransomware kits, lowering the barrier to entry.
- Targeted phishing campaigns: employees remain the most common entry point.
The Real Impact on Cyprus Businesses
An attack doesn’t just disrupt IT systems — it affects your bottom line and reputation. Consequences often include:
- Downtime: operations grind to a halt while systems are locked.
- Financial loss: ransom payments, recovery costs, and potential regulatory fines.
- Reputational damage: clients lose trust if their data is exposed.
- Compliance risks: for regulated sectors, breaches can mean penalties for failing to protect data under GDPR or ISO 27001.
For a broader view of cyber risks, see our report on the 5 Critical Cybersecurity Threats Facing Cyprus Businesses in 2025.
How Ransomware Infects a Business
Most attacks in Cyprus start with human error. Common entry points include:
- Phishing emails with malicious links or attachments
- Compromised remote desktop protocols (RDP)
- Exploiting unpatched software vulnerabilities
- Infected USB drives or external devices
Once inside, the malware spreads laterally, encrypting files and demanding payment for release.
Protecting Your Business in 2025
The good news is that ransomware is preventable with the right strategy. Local businesses can reduce risk by:
- Regular Backups
Ensure backups are automated, encrypted, and stored offsite. Test recovery regularly. - Patch Management
Update all systems and applications to close vulnerabilities quickly. - Employee Awareness
Train staff to identify phishing attempts and suspicious activity. - Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Add an extra layer of protection for email, remote logins, and critical systems. - Incident Response Planning
Have a clear, tested playbook ready so your team knows what to do if ransomware strikes.
Free Resource: Cybersecurity Audit Checklist
One of the best ways to prepare is by reviewing your entire security posture. To help, we’ve created a 30-point Cybersecurity Audit Checklist tailored for Cyprus SMEs.
→ Download the checklist instantly (PDF)
This practical guide covers policies, technical controls, backups, and staff training — the areas most often exploited in ransomware attacks.
Final Thoughts
Ransomware is a growing reality for businesses in Cyprus in 2025. By taking proactive measures today, you can avoid costly downtime, protect sensitive data, and meet compliance requirements.
If you’re unsure where your business stands, our team can help.
Contact ACE Networks today to assess your risks and strengthen your defenses.
And to see how advanced tools are being used to counter modern threats, read more about our CyberSift partnership at the 5th Cybersecurity Conference in Cyprus.