Threat of ransomware attack in Europe

Abstract

Objectives A negative consequence of the digitization of the economy is the development of digital crime, and in this group a ransomware attack in the Ra aS model is a very high threat. The aim of the article is an attempt to determine the scale and identification of directions (sectors) of ransomware attacks in 11 EU countries in connection with the integration of digital technologies by enterprises and the level of social digital competence. Material and methods The separation groups of countries into those with a high, medium and low level of ransomware made it possible to use the authorial synthetic indication constructed on the basis of the taxonomic method of development pattern (Sophos, Comparitech, DESI database). Results The research shows the luck of interdependence between synthetic indicator of ransomware and the variables considered to be key signs of the progressing digitization of the economy. The most vulnerable sectors to attack are: business, government administration and the health sector. Conclusions In Europe, a ransomware attack is determined by the ability to obtain a high ransom, therefore organizations with a high willingness to pay for fear of losing their reputation, become the greatest target. The choice of an organization - a potential victim of an attack, is not affected by its IT level or digital competences of employees. The platform model adopted by cybercriminals, is characteristic of global technology companies, whose the basis for success is advanced technologies and above-average digital competence of employees. RaaS model appears to be a major challenge for cybersecurity in the 21st century.

Keywords

• economy
• digitalization
• cybersecurity
• ransomware
• phishing