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Ransomware

09 February 2026

Knowledge

Cyber Security

Ransomware

What is ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malicious program that demands payment after launching a cyber attack on a computer system. This type of malware has become increasingly popular among criminals, costing organisations millions each year.

 

The impact of ransomware

Security experts recognise that ransomware is one of the fastest-growing forms of cyber attack.

51% of organisations have been impacted by ransomware in the past 12 months, according to Mimecast’s The State of Email Security Report 2020.

Its prevalence and reach were emphasised when WannaCry and, more recently, NotPetya exploited a flaw in Microsoft’s SMB software and spread rapidly across networks, locking away files.

According to Bitdefender Labs, there are roughly 2.8 million known unique samples of ransomware and the numbers keep growing. DIY ransomware creation tools are also readily available.

Protect yourself with IT Governance's cyber security and technical services

Our services are delivered by a team of experienced in-house consultants and penetration testers. We have a deep understanding of the cyber risks faced by organisations today, and can help you implement the best possible security solutions for your budget and requirements.

Prepare for, recognise and survive ransomware attacks with our range of bestselling products and services below.

 

Cyber Health Check

Do you have an overall view of how effective your security plan is? Are the right IT security controls in place to protect the information that is critical to your business?

The three-phase Cyber Health Check combines on-site consultancy and audit with remote vulnerability assessments to assess your cyber risk exposure.

Our approach will identify your cyber risks, audit the effectiveness of your responses to those risks and analyse your real risk exposure. We then create a prioritised action plan for managing those risks in line with your business objectives.

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ISO 27001 consultancy

Does your organisation have the necessary security controls to monitor, review and protect your organisation’s information assets?​

ISO 27001 is the international standard that describes best practice for an ISMS (information security management system). It is globally recognised as the most comprehensive solution to achieving enhanced cyber security.

From fixed-price packages to bespoke consultancy, we can supply everything you need to implement an ISO 27001-compliant ISMS.

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Penetration testing services

Do you need to assess your organisation’s vulnerability to attack or the value and exploitability of critical assets?​

We can test your defences with our Simulated Phishing Attack penetration testing service.

It will establish whether your employees are vulnerable to phishing emails, enabling you to take immediate remedial action to improve your cyber security measures.

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