Ransomware Attacks: Common Stages, Timelines and Prevention Tips
Summary
Huntress outlines ransomware attack stages and reports attackers took an average of 18 steps before deployment. It recommends early prevention, security awareness training and managed security tools.
Key points
- Huntress reports attackers took an average of 18 steps in the 48 hours before ransomware deployment, including privilege escalation, lateral movement and data exfiltration.
- The article says ransomware groups such as INC and Akira may need only six to eight hours to move from initial access to deployment.
- It describes common stages as targeting, gaining initial access, maintaining access and deploying ransomware.
- Initial access may involve stolen or purchased credentials, or tricking people into clicking links or sharing sensitive information.
- Attackers may use legitimate tools to blend into network traffic and maintain persistent access.
- The article recommends security awareness training and managed EDR, ITDR and SIEM services as prevention and detection measures.
Article Details
- Topic
- General ransomware attack stages, typical attacker behaviors, and prevention strategies
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2025 Cyber Threat ReportIn the Huntress 2025 Cyber Threat Report, we shared our analysis of the 48 hours leading up to ransomware attacks to see how attackers plotted.Before Ransomware Strikes: Attack PlaybookWe’ve created the Before Ransomware Strikes: Attack Playbook, which breaks down the key stages of a ransomware attack and important strategies for protecting yourself.