Most organizations and, increasingly, individuals have heard of ransomware attacks. Still, few people really know what it entails, how it originates, and, above all, how to anticipate it before it causes real harm.
In recent years, incidents of this kind have become much more sophisticated and insidious. They don’t usually begin with an alarming on-screen message, but with subtle signs that go unnoticed until it’s too late.
Before we get into the subject, it is worth remembering that traditional prevention is no longer an option, especially as automated attacks proliferate and cybercriminals exploit any oversight.
For individual users, Enthec offers Qondar, a customized cyber-monitoring tool that detects early warning signs, data leaks, and suspicious activity that may indicate an attack on your digital identity.. It’s a continuous service that alerts you when something requires your attention, preventing a minor incident from escalating into a serious security breach.
If you are an individual and want to know whether your information is circulating where it shouldn’t be, Qondar can help you start today.
What exactly is a ransomware attack?
A ransomware attack is a type of cyberattack in which malware encrypts system files or locks the victim’s device, demanding a ransom for their release.. The worrying aspect is that it’s not just about “kidnapping” data; many current variants also steal data before encrypting it and threaten to leak it if the ransom isn’t paid publicly.
Most common types of ransomware
There are several types of ransomware, and knowing them helps to understand the risk better:
- Encrypting ransomware:. It is the most common. It encrypts documents, databases, or backups, rendering daily operations unusable.
- Locking ransomware:. Prevents access to the entire operating system. It usually affects individual users more.
- Double extortion:. First, they steal the data, then they encrypt it. This model has grown significantly since 2021.
- Targeted ransomware:. Attackers select a specific company, study it, and orchestrate a manual attack that has been prepared over weeks.
- Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS):. Anyone without technical expertise can rent a “kit” to launch attacks. This model has multiplied incidents worldwide.
Ransomware symptoms that can warn you before disaster strikes
Many attacks take days to activate. During that time, systems may show signs that, if detected early, enable action before severe damage occurs. Among the most common ransomware symptoms are:
- Teams are slower than usual for no apparent reason.
- Programs that close automatically or stop responding.
- Appearance of new background processes that you do not recognize.
- Changes to system files or folder permissions.
- Unusual login alerts on online platforms.
- Notifications of failed login attempts to your accounts.
In organizations where systems are adequately monitored, these behaviors should trigger early warnings. For individual users, detecting these signals is more challenging, and automated tools like Qondar are handy.
Ransomware: what to do if we suspect we are being attacked
There is no magic formula, but there is a series of recommended steps to take when you think you are having an attack:
- Disconnect the affected device:. Disconnect the affected device: It prevents malware from spreading to other connected computers or services.
- Never pay the ransom:. INCIBE and Europol agree that the payment could worsen the situation. It does not guarantee recovery and fuels the criminal industry.
- Review the backups:. If they are recent and isolated, they can save all the information.
- Record all possible information:. Screenshots, messages, file names, or any other trace that helps identify the variant.
- Contact professionals:. Specialized support can stop the attack, recover data, and manage internal and external communication.
Recent ransomware examples that show its real impact
Analyzing real-world incidents shows that no sector is safe. Some recent cases include:
- An attack on several London hospitals in 2024, in which medical records were encrypted, and there were threats to publish sensitive patient information.
- Education sector, with universities paralyzed for weeks as internal management platforms were encrypted.
- SMEs from different countries were attacked via RaaS and forced to halt basic operations, such as logistics and customer service.
These ransomware examples demonstrate that the target is not always a large corporation; attackers look for any vulnerability, no matter how small.
Why advanced monitoring is key to anticipating problems
This point is where the modern approach to Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) comes in. . It is a process in which weaknesses, suspicious movements, external leaks, and any data that may indicate an imminent risk are constantly analyzed.
How CTEM helps against a ransomware attack
- Identifies credential leaks before they are used.
- Monitors domains, the deep web, and external sources for dangerous mentions.
- Controls vulnerabilities publicly exposed.
- Detects anomalous behavior indicative of early-stage infection.
- Reduces the time between detection and response.
Within the Enthec ecosystem, this approach materializes in two solutions:
Kartos, for companies
A cyber surveillance platform designed for organizations that need to monitor their attack surface 24/7. It allows them to detect threats before they become incidents.
Qondar, for private users
The ideal tool for those who don’t have a technical team but still want to know whether their data is at risk. Qondar continuously analyzes whether your information appears in suspicious contexts, whether your credentials are being circulated, or whether someone is impersonating you.
This is precisely why it is beneficial to anticipate a ransomware attack targeting the end user, since many campaigns begin with prior espionage or password theft.
How to realistically anticipate a ransomware attack
Anticipation doesn’t depend on a sophisticated trick, but on a combination of sensible measures:
- Review passwords and always enable two-factor authentication;. many incidents begin with stolen credentials via leaks or phishing.
- Keep systems updated:. Although it may seem basic, it remains one of the most exploited weaknesses.
- Monitor digital identity:. If your data appears to have been leaked, you are likely to be targeted for future attacks.
- Keep backups offline:. Copies linked to the system are encrypted in the same way as the primary data.
- Train the staff:. It’s essential in companies. An employee who recognizes a suspicious email can prevent a disaster.
Ransomware has become one of the biggest digital threats of our time. Understanding what it is, knowing its variants, and learning to identify early warning signs gives us a better chance of protecting ourselves.
And if you’re an individual, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. With Qondar, you can let advanced monitoring do the work for you, alerting you when it detects any signs of risk. Protecting your identity is easier when you have tools designed for it.
Do you want to know if your data is exposed? Discover Qondar and start monitoring your digital security today.
