What Really Happens During a Ransomware Attack?

Understand the timeline, tactics, and truth behind modern ransomware breaches — and how to protect your business from becoming the next victim.

Introduction

Most people think a ransomware attack begins with a demand for payment. In reality, that’s the final move in a well-executed sequence of steps. Understanding how ransomware attacks actually unfold is the first step in preventing one — and responding effectively if it happens.

In this post, we walk through a typical ransomware attack timeline, from initial access to system encryption, and explain what your business should be doing at each stage to stay protected.

Step 1: Initial Access

Attackers typically enter through phishing emails, compromised remote desktop (RDP) connections, or software vulnerabilities. Often, this stage goes unnoticed. It may just be one user clicking a malicious attachment.

What you can do:

• Implement multi-factor authentication

• Run user awareness training

• Use email threat protection and link scanning

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Step 2: Reconnaissance and Lateral Movement

Once inside, attackers move quietly. They scan your network, find sensitive systems, escalate privileges, and often disable antivirus tools or backups.

What you can do:

• Use endpoint detection and response (EDR)

• Monitor unusual user behaviour

• Limit admin access and segment your network

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Step 3: Payload Execution and Encryption

Only when the attacker has full access do they trigger the ransomware. Files across servers, endpoints, and backups are encrypted. You may see a ransom note appear across devices, locking users out and demanding payment.

What you can do:

• Maintain off-site, immutable backups

• Test restore processes regularly

• Keep business continuity plans up to date

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Step 4: The Ransom Demand

You’re told to pay — usually in cryptocurrency — in exchange for a decryption key. Attackers may also threaten to leak stolen data if payment isn’t made.

What you can do:

• Have a pre-defined incident response plan

• Engage a specialist (like Crown Managed Security) immediately

• Involve legal, insurance, and regulatory contacts if required

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Step 5: Response and Recovery

Without a proper plan, businesses face extended downtime, lost revenue, reputational damage, and potential legal penalties. The longer it takes to respond, the more it costs.

What you can do:

• Partner with an incident response team in advance

• Use Hardware-as-a-Service for fast device replacement

• Appoint a vCISO to guide long-term recovery and risk reduction

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Conclusion

Ransomware isn’t just a technical issue — it’s a business crisis. But with the right prevention, planning, and partnerships in place, you can turn a worst-case scenario into a managed event.