Ransomware is a type of malicious malware used by threat actors to encrypt files on a victim's device and make them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. This allows cybercriminals to extort businesses, organizations, and government agencies by threatening them with losing their data forever if they don’t pay up.

Ransomware attacks typically follow a predictable sequence. Here’s how ransomware works step by step:

How does ransomware encrypt files and bring businesses to their knees? Here's a quick breakdown of a typical attack:

• Infection: Cybercriminals deliver ransomware through phishing emails, malicious websites, compromised software, compromised credentials, or remote access vulnerabilities.

• Execution: Once inside, the ransomware scans for certain files, locks them up using heavy-duty ransomware encryption, and disables security defenses.

• Ransom demand: Attackers leave a note demanding payment—usually in cryptocurrency—in exchange for a decryption key or program.

• Outcome: If you pay, there's no guarantee you'll get your files back. If you don't, you're stuck dealing with data loss, downtime, and cleanup. Not only should you worry about extortion, but threat actors are also engaging in double extortion, where they’ll keep a copy of their victim’s data to use as blackmail if they don’t get their money. Some ransomware actors are even moving straight to exfiltration and extortion, which saves them time. Even if you paid to prevent your files from being leaked, there’s no guarantee that they will delete your data and refrain from further blackmail in the future.   

Ransomware isn't just an inconvenience—it's a known business killer. One of the most well-known ransomware attack examples is the Colonial Pipeline attack in May 2021.

Carried out by the DarkSide ransomware group, Colonial Pipeline's IT systems were attacked and forced to shut down operations, leading to fuel shortages across the US East Coast and causing widespread disruption. The attackers demanded a ransom, and Colonial Pipeline paid $4.4 million in Bitcoin to regain access to its systems. Incidents like this highlight the devastating impact ransomware can have on an organization. 

As was covered in the Huntress 2025 Threat Report, the average time for ransomware to go from entry to encryption is under 17 hours with some groups operating under 4 hours, so time is of the essence when trying to stay ahead of these threat actors.

Below is a screenshot of a real conversation between a small business owner and a cybercriminal demanding a $200,000 ransom.

Recognizing the signs of a ransomware attack early can help limit damage.

Ransomware doesn't often sneak in quietly. If you see any of these red flags, it's time to act fast:

• Files suddenly have strange extensions and won't open

• A ransom note takes over your screen, demanding payment

• Your system slows down or locks you out completely

• Security tools stop working, leaving you defenseless

If you suspect ransomware, disconnect from the network immediately—this can stop the infection from spreading.

Removing ransomware depends on the type of ransomware and how far the attack has spread.

Some older variants have publicly available decryptors, but most modern ransomware uses strong encryption that's practically unbreakable. If you have backups, restoring your files from them is your best bet, assuming they haven't been compromised. 

Alternatively, many cybersecurity firms periodically release decryption tools for specific ransomware strains. When in doubt, partnering with a reputable cybersecurity expert to help analyze an attack, contain the strain, and work on recovery efforts is always a good idea.

Whatever you do, don't pay the ransom—there's no guarantee you'll get your files back, and giving in only fuels future attacks.

Ransomware is a nightmare, but you don't have to be defenseless. Here's how to defend against ransomware and keep your business from becoming another statistic.

• Huntress Ransomware Protection, paired with Managed EDR: Automated, real-time threat detection stops ransomware before it spreads.

• Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Prevent unauthorized access with an extra layer of security.

• Back up everything: Store important files offline or in the cloud so you can restore them without paying a ransom. Test your backups periodically and store them offline when possible.

• Patch and update software: Cybercriminals love outdated systems—don't give them an easy way in.

• Train your team: Most ransomware starts with phishing, so it's crucial to train employees to spot sketchy emails and links. 

• Practice good account hygiene: Aside from phishing, ransomware actors often take advantage of valid accounts, either through brute force attacks, credential stuffing, or by purchasing valid credentials through access brokers.  Remove unneeded accounts and enforce good password practices to help reduce this attack surface.

Preventing ransomware requires more than basic antivirus.

Huntress doesn’t just detect ransomware—we stop it dead in its tracks. Huntress Managed EDR provides 24/7 threat monitoring to detect and stop ransomware attacks before they spread.

Our team of 24/7 cybersecurity experts proactively hunts for hidden threats that automated systems often miss, making sure no stone is left unturned. If ransomware is detected, we automatically isolate the infected endpoints, preventing further spread and minimizing damage. We don’t just stop the attack; we assist in rapid recovery and bolster your defenses so it doesn’t happen again. 

Ransomware isn’t going anywhere, but with the proper protection, you can keep your business out of the headlines—for all the right reasons. 

Don’t wait for the next attack: see how Huntress stops ransomware attacks.