It’s Time to Bust These 4 Ransomware Myths

Ransomware attacks are becoming more frequent, more sophisticated, and more expensive. Organisations across New Zealand and around the world are prime targets, no matter their size. Cybercriminals continue to adapt their tactics, and too many businesses remain vulnerable because of common ransomware myths.

Believing these misconceptions leaves companies underprepared and at greater risk of disruption, financial loss, and reputational damage.

In this article, we’ll bust four of the most common ransomware misconceptions and give you the facts you need to better protect your business.

Myth #1: Paying the ransom will get my data back

Many business leaders assume that if they get hit with ransomware, paying the ransom is the fastest way to get operations back online. Unfortunately, this is rarely true.

There is no guarantee that attackers will provide a working decryption key once they’ve been paid. In fact, paying a ransom only fuels the cycle of cybercrime, giving hackers more incentive to launch future attacks.

The truth: The best protection is preparation. A strong backup strategy, combined with a wider cybersecurity plan, ensures your business can recover without relying on cybercriminals.

Myth #2: Backups alone will save my business

Backups are critical to ransomware protection, but they are not foolproof. Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting backup files as part of their attacks, sometimes corrupting or deleting them.

In addition, many ransomware gangs now use double extortion: stealing sensitive data and threatening to release it publicly, even if you can restore your systems from backup.

The truth: Backups are essential, but they must be combined with security controls, monitoring, and a tested incident response plan.

Myth #3: Antivirus software is enough protection

Antivirus tools are an important layer of defence, but relying on them alone is a dangerous misconception. Modern ransomware strains often bypass basic antivirus protections.

The truth: There is no single solution to ransomware. Businesses need a defence-in-depth strategy, combining multiple tools and practices such as advanced endpoint protection, multi-factor authentication (MFA), email filtering, and regular staff training.

Myth #4: My business is too small to be a target

One of the most dangerous ransomware myths is believing that hackers only target big corporations. The reality is very different.

Small and medium-sized businesses across New Zealand are just as likely to be hit. Cybercriminals know that smaller organisations often lack strong security defences, making them easier targets. Every business holds data that is valuable to attackers.

The truth: Assume you are a target. Proactive security measures, strong policies, and regular monitoring are essential no matter your size or sector.

Busting Ransomware Myths: The Right Way Forward

No security solution is foolproof, but understanding these ransomware misconceptions helps you prepare more effectively. A strong cybersecurity approach should include:

Reliable and tested backups.
Defence-in-depth using multiple layers of protection.
Ongoing monitoring and threat detection.
Staff training and awareness.
A documented incident response plan.

Partner to Succeed

The best way to reduce your ransomware risk is to take proactive steps now. By working with a trusted IT partner, you can strengthen your defences and ensure your business is resilient against evolving threats.

Get in touch with us for a chat about your cybersecurity needs, or connect with us on LinkedIn to stay updated with more insights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ransomware

1. What is ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts your files and demands payment for their release.

2. Should I pay a ransomware ransom?
No. Paying does not guarantee recovery and encourages future attacks. Focus on backups, security controls, and response planning.

3. Are backups enough to protect me from ransomware?
Backups are vital, but alone they are not enough. Attackers often target backups and may use double extortion tactics.

4. Can antivirus software stop ransomware?
Antivirus helps, but it’s not a complete solution. Ransomware protection requires multiple security layers.

5. Are small businesses really ransomware targets?
Yes. Businesses of all sizes are at risk because attackers value any data they can steal or encrypt.