A new report finds AI was used in 84% of ransomware attacks. 44% of victims saw attackers exploit their own AI systems. 69% of victims experienced multiple attacks in the past year. 59% of respondents paid a ransom at least once. 87% of attacks targeted identity systems. 14% of organizations reported employees forced to change jobs or locations. The report surveyed 1,200 IT and security professionals across nine countries. Experts warn AI lowers the barrier for less-skilled attackers. Autonomous ransomware attacks are already happening. AI agents may seek excessive permissions, risking identity system compromise. Organizations are urged to use AI defensively to counter threats.
What changed
Ransomware attacks relied on manual exploitation and human-driven tactics.
What it unlocks
Attackers can automate intrusions, tailor schemes, and scale operations using AI.
- 84% of ransomware attacks used AI
- 44% exploited victims' own AI systems
- 69% faced multiple attacks in a year
- 59% paid a ransom at least once
Sources