Ransomware Extortion Gets Personal as Attackers Target Employees' Families, Report Finds

Ransomware attackers are widening their tactics beyond encrypting systems and threatening to leak stolen data.

According to CSO Online's coverage of the Semperis 2026 Ransomware Risk Report, attackers are increasingly using AI in their attacks, exploiting organizations' own AI systems and even using physical intimidation by threatening employees and their families to pressure companies into paying.

What defenders should note

The shift means incident response plans may need to cover employee safety and support, not only technical recovery. Readers should consult the original report and CSO Online article for the survey figures and detailed recommendations.