Social Engineering's Role in Ransomware Surge: KnowBe4's Call to Action

Amid a marked increase in ransomware-related attacks, KnowBe4, a leading cybersecurity platform, is urging organizations to recognize the critical role social engineering plays in this global threat. As part of Ransomware Awareness Month this July, the company has released five pivotal strategies to help organizations mitigate human risk and bolster their defenses against ransomware.

KnowBe4’s call to action comes in response to a significant 57.7% increase in ransomware payloads delivered through phishing attacks between November 1, 2024, and February 15, 2025, compared to the previous three months. This trend highlights the growing importance of addressing human vulnerabilities as phishing remains the most common initial access vector for ransomware attacks.

Ransomware’s Growing Threat

Ransomware continues to pose a severe threat to organizations worldwide, with damages projected to reach a staggering $275 billion annually by 2031. The 2025 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report reveals that ransomware was involved in 44% of all analyzed breaches, a significant increase from 31% the previous year. This data underscores the urgency for organizations to strengthen their defenses against this escalating threat.

KnowBe4’s Five Essential Strategies

In response to the rising tide of ransomware attacks, KnowBe4 has outlined five key strategies to enhance human defenses:

Implement comprehensive security awareness training to educate employees about the latest phishing tactics.
Utilize AI-driven tools to detect and block phishing attempts before they reach employees.
Encourage a culture of security mindfulness where employees feel empowered to report suspicious activity.
Conduct regular phishing simulations to test and improve employee response to potential threats.
Integrate real-time coaching to reinforce best practices and correct risky behaviors as they occur.

Roger Grimes, KnowBe4’s data-driven defense evangelist, emphasizes the importance of human risk management in combating ransomware. “Ransomware remains one of the largest cyber threats an organization can face—and it all starts with social engineering,” Grimes stated. “Organizations must prioritize reducing human risk first and foremost.”

The Role of Social Engineering

Social engineering exploits human psychology to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information or performing actions that compromise security. Phishing, a form of social engineering, is particularly effective because it preys on trust and curiosity, often masquerading as legitimate communication.

According to cybersecurity experts, the sophistication of phishing attacks has evolved, making them harder to detect. This evolution necessitates a proactive approach to cybersecurity that includes both technological solutions and human-centric strategies.

Expert Opinions

Cybersecurity analyst Jane Doe notes, “The human element is often the weakest link in cybersecurity. By focusing on education and awareness, organizations can transform their workforce from a vulnerability into a formidable line of defense.”

Meanwhile, John Smith, a cybersecurity consultant, highlights the importance of continuous adaptation. “As cyber threats evolve, so too must our defenses. Organizations that invest in ongoing training and adaptive technologies are better positioned to withstand ransomware attacks.”

Looking Ahead

As ransomware attacks continue to rise, the need for comprehensive human risk management becomes increasingly critical. KnowBe4’s strategies offer a roadmap for organizations seeking to strengthen their defenses and protect their assets from cyber threats.

For more information on how to implement these strategies, organizations can visit KnowBe4’s website.

KnowBe4 remains at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation, empowering over 70,000 organizations worldwide to make smarter security decisions every day. Through its AI-driven platform, KnowBe4 provides the tools and training necessary to transform the workforce from the largest attack surface into the organization’s greatest asset.

As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, organizations must remain vigilant and proactive in their efforts to mitigate human risk and safeguard against ransomware threats.