World Backup Day highlights rise in ransomware incidents

World Backup Day takes place this Monday, promoting awareness about the risks of data loss and data theft, alongside emphasising the importance of backing up data.

Jon Fielding, Managing Director, EMEA at Apricorn, discussed recent trends in ransomware attacks, noting that the number of incidents reported globally in 2024 rose by 11% to 5,414 cases.

He said, "In 2024, ransomware incidents surged by 11%, with 5,414 reported attacks worldwide, whilst reports from Veeam found that 96% of ransomware attacks targeted backup repositories. Our recent Apricorn survey findings also revealed that 25% of organisations could only partially recover their data after an attack, and 8% admitted to being completely unsuccessful, citing a lack of robust backup procedures."

Fielding highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at addressing ransomware-related issues, referencing proposals from the UK government that restrict public sector bodies and critical national infrastructure from making ransomware payments.

He remarked, "Whilst steps are being taken to tackle the issue of ransomware, such as, through proposals from the UK government banning all public sector bodies and critical national infrastructure, from making ransomware payments, this does not address the recovery dilemma."

The company's research underscores the challenges businesses face in fully recovering data post-breach, exposing shortcomings in existing backup procedures. Fielding commented, "Apricorn's research highlights that businesses are still struggling to fully recover their data following a breach and exposing flaws in their backup processes. Failure to implement a comprehensive backup strategy can leave businesses exposed and vulnerable and, in a position, where paying a ransom demand may feel like the only way out. But, whether paying is optional or not, backups are critical."

In light of World Backup Day, Apricorn stresses the necessity for secure and encrypted backups as a defensive measure against data lockout, enabling swift recovery from cyberattacks.

"With World Backup Day approaching, it's a prime opportunity to consider the need for secure and encrypted backups to protect against potential data lockout and ensure organisations can recover swiftly from attacks," detailed Fielding.

The 3-2-1 backup rule is regarded as a foundational approach to data safeguarding. This entails maintaining at least three copies of data across two different media types, with at least one copy stored offsite.

Fielding further explained, "A fundamental approach to safeguarding data is the 3-2-1 backup rule: maintain at least three copies of your data, on at least two different media types, with at least one copy stored offsite. This methodology ensures data availability even in the face of hardware failures, cyberattacks, or natural disasters. However, adherence to this rule requires consistent implementation and regular verification to ensure backups are current and retrievable."

Encouraging organisations to prioritise data protection daily, Fielding concluded, "Organisations should commit to making data protection a daily priority and reinforcing defences against cyber threats and data loss."