When ransomware first hit headlines, attackers often lingered in networks for weeks or even months before making demands. That window has shrunk dramatically.
Today, the average time from initial compromise to ransom is just 17 hours, with reports showing some attacks happening in as little as 6 hours. In other words, by the time many businesses realize something’s wrong, it’s already too late.
The Paradox: Payments Down, Attacks Up
Interestingly, ransom payments have declined in recent years. Organizations are more reluctant to pay, and law enforcement agencies strongly discourage it. But this hasn’t slowed attackers. In fact, the number of ransomware attacks continues to rise.
Why? Cybercriminals understand that they can still disrupt operations, steal sensitive data, and pressure victims with threats of exposure. Even if fewer organizations pay, the volume of attacks ensures that enough victims will give in to make it worthwhile.
Why Small and Mid-Sized Businesses Are at Risk
Large enterprises often dominate the headlines, but small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly being targeted. The reason is simple: many SMBs have limited security resources and little awareness of just how quickly ransomware can spread.
Attackers know this. They automate scanning for weaknesses and exploit them rapidly, banking on the fact that smaller companies won’t notice until it’s too late.
The Key Defense: Continuous Network Monitoring
Given how quickly ransomware can move, continuous network monitoring is no longer optional. Tools and practices like Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR), Managed Detection & Response (MDR), and Security Information & Event Management (SIEM) give you real-time visibility into what’s happening inside your systems.
This isn’t about paranoia, it’s about reducing the time to detection. If criminals can move from access to ransom in 6 hours, your team needs the ability to detect and contain the breach in minutes, not days.
Practical Steps You Can Take Now:
- Assess your visibility: Do you know what’s happening in your network right now?
- Deploy monitoring tools: Even small businesses can afford lightweight MDR or SOC-as-a-service options.
- Plan for incidents: Have a clear ransomware response plan — who to call, what systems to isolate, and how to restore from backups.
In Summary
Ransomware isn’t slowing down, it’s speeding up. While ransom payments may be declining, the sheer number of attacks is climbing and SMBs are firmly in the crosshairs. The best defense is awareness and action, starting with continuous network monitoring.
I know you’re not watching your network…but chances are someone else is.
- Would You Ignore a 1-in-3 Chance of a $250,000 Loss? – October 23, 2025
- The cybersecurity reality for SMBs – October 21, 2025
- Protecting Yourself from FinTech Fraud: Five Common Scams and How to Stay Safe – October 14, 2025