Essentials explained
What are ransomware attacks and how can I prevent them?
Ransomware is one of the fastest-growing cyber threats facing small businesses today, and no company is too small to be a target. These attacks can lock you out of your systems, steal sensitive data, and demand payment to restore access.
This guide breaks down what ransomware is, how it works, and the practical steps you can take to protect your business.
October 08, 2025
5 minutes
Ransomware is malicious software that’s installed by cyber criminals. The aim is to block access to your computer systems or data, to steal sensitive information or both. The attackers will demand a payment to stop this happening.
Small and medium-sized businesses are often a target for cyber crime, as many don’t invest in the IT resources or training to protect themselves. Whatever your company’s size, it’s vital to understand how to stay as secure as possible.
Protect the most important parts of your business first. Regularly back up sensitive data, install anti-virus programs on every device and keep all software updated. And make sure everyone has regular security awareness training and reminders on how to stay safe.
Ransomware is a type of malicious software, or malware, that can cause damage to your company in one or both of the following ways:
- By blocking access to your computer systems and data.
- By extracting the digital data you hold within your business (such as employee or customer information or your intellectual property), which can be used for criminal purposes.
Typically, attackers will infect your business with the malware and then demand money to restore access to your systems, hence the name. They may also ask for an additional payment to stop them publishing or selling on the data they have stolen.
The impact of a ransomware attack can be enormous. It may mean your business is unable to function, or it might cause reputational damage that results in a major loss of trust among your customers.
Small businesses are popular targets for cyber crime, as they often don’t invest in the IT resources or training to protect themselves.
Many small businesses think they’re too small to target, but cyber criminals actively choose small and medium-sized companies as they expect that they won’t have enterprise-grade defences. No business is too small.
How ransomware attacks happen
How to protect your business
