Story perspectives

Ransomware Attacks Surge 50% in 2025, Payments Plummet

2/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ransomware incidents surged 50% in 2025, with extortion totaling about $820 million, according to Chainalysis.
The payment rate fell to 28%, down from 62.8% in 2024.
The median ransom payment rose by 368% to $59,556.
Despite rising attacks, fewer companies paid criminals due to improved incident responses and regulatory scrutiny.
The report notes 85 extortion groups remain active, primarily targeting US businesses and also Canada, Germany, and the UK.

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Story summary

Ransomware incidents surged 50% in 2025, with extortion totaling about $820 million, according to Chainalysis.
The payment rate fell to 28%, down from 62.8% in 2024.
The median ransom payment rose by 368% to $59,556.
Despite rising attacks, fewer companies paid criminals due to improved incident responses and regulatory scrutiny.
The report notes 85 extortion groups remain active, primarily targeting US businesses and also Canada, Germany, and the UK.