Cyber Brief: Ransomware Readiness and Recovery Planning

Today’s cybersecurity activity continues to underline the importance of preparation over reaction. Recent reporting focuses on ransomware readiness, weaknesses in backup strategies, and the growing gap between detection and effective recovery when incidents occur.

Ransomware Attacks Continue to Exploit Operational Weaknesses

Security reporting shows that ransomware incidents remain widespread, with attackers increasingly targeting operational weaknesses rather than novel vulnerabilities. In many cases, access is gained through previously compromised credentials or unpatched systems before encryption is deployed.

Attackers are also spending more time understanding environments to maximise disruption and pressure organisations into paying ransoms.

Why it matters
Ransomware is no longer just a technical problem. It directly affects business continuity, customer trust, and regulatory obligations. Preparation and validation are key to limiting impact.

Source: Ransomware threat reporting

Backup Strategies Failing Under Real-World Attack Conditions

New analysis highlights that backups are frequently present but ineffective during incidents. Issues include backups that are accessible from compromised systems, incomplete coverage of critical assets, or recovery processes that have never been tested under pressure.

In some cases, organisations only discover these gaps during an active incident.

Why it matters
Backups are a last line of defence. If they fail, recovery options become limited and costly. Regular testing and isolation of backups are essential to ensure they can be relied upon when needed.

Source: Incident response analysis

Recovery Planning Lags Behind Detection Capabilities

While many organisations have improved detection and alerting, recovery planning often receives less attention. Roles, decision-making processes, and technical recovery steps are not always clearly defined or rehearsed.

This can delay response efforts and increase downtime during an incident.

Why it matters
Fast detection is only valuable if it leads to effective action. Clear recovery plans and rehearsed response processes help organisations regain control quickly and reduce disruption.

Source: Security operations commentary

Today’s Key Actions

1. Review ransomware preparedness beyond technical controls
2. Validate that backups are isolated, complete, and recoverable
3. Test recovery processes, not just backup creation
4. Ensure roles and responsibilities are clear during incidents

Secarma Insight

Resilience against ransomware is built long before an incident occurs. By validating backup strategies, rehearsing recovery, and proactively testing environments, organisations can reduce both the likelihood and impact of disruptive attacks.

If you’d like to explore how to strengthen your ransomware readiness, speak to the Secarma team:
https://secarma.com/contact