Ransomware in 2025: Top Threats and How to Stop Them

Ransomware attacks are becoming more aggressive, locking critical files and demanding millions in ransom. Even if victims pay, there's no guarantee of data recovery, making prevention crucial.

Researchers highlight three major ransomware families in 2025:

1. LockBit: A Persistent Threat

• A notorious Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) operation using double extortion tactics.
• Notable Attacks: London Drugs (May 2024), University Hospital Center Zagreb (June 2024), Evolve Bank & Trust (June 2024).
• Tactics: Encrypts files, steals data, and demands ransom via TOR websites.
• Detection: Interactive analysis in ANY.RUN reveals file encryption, privilege escalation, and security bypass tactics.

2. Lynx: Targeting Small and Mid-Sized Businesses

• Emerging in 2024, Lynx aggressively attacks smaller firms, leveraging double extortion.
• Recent Attack: Lowe Engineers (January 2025), exposing sensitive client and project data.
• Tactics: Encrypts files (.LYNX extensions), modifies registry settings, and queries security policies before launching attacks.
• Detection: Sandboxing in ANY.RUN exposes its full attack chain, helping businesses mitigate risks.

3. Virlock: A Self-Replicating Ransomware

• First seen in 2014, Virlock infects files, allowing it to spread rapidly via cloud storage.
• Tactics: Encrypts and infects files, creating a cycle of reinfection.
• Detection: ANY.RUN identifies its unique mutex, registry modifications, and CMD.EXE-based execution methods.

How to Stop Ransomware Before It’s Too Late

• Ransomware is evolving, but businesses can prevent costly breaches.
• Interactive sandboxes like ANY.RUN provide real-time analysis, uncovering ransomware behavior before it spreads.
• By proactively analyzing suspicious files, companies can strengthen defenses and avoid devastating attacks in 2025.