Ransomware attacks are a growing cyber threat, aiming to extort individuals and organisations for financial gain. Cybercriminals infiltrate systems, encrypt critical data, and demand ransom—without guaranteeing decryption. Often, they exfiltrate sensitive information to increase pressure by threatening to leak or sell the data.
Since the first ransomware case in 1989, attacks have evolved significantly. Initially targeting individuals, cybercriminals shifted their focus to large organisations from 2005 onward due to higher potential profits. Since 2015, ransomware has become more sophisticated, with rising ransom demands and greater economic and societal impact. In the Netherlands, reported ransomware attacks surged by 66% between 2021 and 2023, though actual numbers are likely much higher due to underreporting.
Recognising the severity of this threat, public and private organisations launched Melissa in 2022—a collaboration between law enforcement, cybersecurity experts, and private sector representatives.
