The danger of new AI-powered ransomware

Ransomware stands out as one of the most critical IT threats, forcing victims into a tough choice: pay the demanded ransom or permanently lose access to their data.

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that locks a user’s or organization’s data by encrypting it, rendering the information inaccessible until a ransom is paid. Hackers today are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance and automate their attacks, making ransomware more advanced and increasingly difficult to detect.

AI enables the creation of new variants of existing ransomware that can evade traditional security measures.

A recent example highlights how ransomware has evolved. Check Point Research reported that the FunkSec ransomware group, which emerged in late 2024, claimed over 85 victims in December alone, primarily targeting individuals and organizations in the US and India. This group surpassed other ransomware operators in activity during that period.

FunkSec is believed to utilize AI-driven malware development tools, which, by 2025, could allow even inexperienced individuals to create highly sophisticated malware with minimal effort.

Given the rising complexity of these threats, users must adopt heightened vigilance. This includes consistently updating operating systems and commonly used applications, as well as maintaining regular backups of critical data on external drives or cloud platforms.

To prevent attacks, it is crucial to avoid clicking on suspicious links in emails, as they could lead to compromised websites. For emails from banks, insurance companies, social security offices, or phone providers—whether legitimate or phishing attempts—refrain from clicking on any included links. Instead, directly log into your account through the official website or app to confirm the email’s contents. Similarly, avoid opening unsolicited attachments or files in unfamiliar formats.

Lastly, for enhanced security, it is advisable to avoid using public WiFi networks.

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