Ransomware is one of the biggest cyber threats facing small and medium-sized businesses today. It can lock your files, stop your operations, and demand a large payment to get your data back. In many cases, even paying the ransom doesn't fix the problem. As these attacks become more common in 2025, it's vital that business owners take steps to stay protected.
Many SMEs believe they're too small to be targeted, but that's no longer true. Hackers often see smaller firms as easier to break into because they may not have strong IT security in place.
In this guide we will show you the key things you can do to lower your risk and keep your business safe from ransomware.
Ransomware Is Rising Fast and SMEs Are at Risk
In 2025, cybercriminals are shifting their focus toward small and medium-sized businesses. Unlike large corporations, many SMEs do not have strong cybersecurity systems in place, making them easier to target.
A recent Ibec survey found that 75% of SMEs in Ireland are concerned about their IT security. The same report shows a clear rise in phishing emails and ransomware attacks across sectors.
Over 90% of Irish businesses have experienced a cyberattack in the past five years. These include extortion attempts, email scams, and data theft, often costing tens of thousands of euros to fix.
The average ransom demand for Irish SMEs now stands at around €23,000. Unfortunately, even after paying, most companies do not fully recover their data.
What Is Ransomware & Its Types?
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that locks or encrypts your files. You are then asked to pay a ransom to get your data back.
Hackers often target businesses because they rely heavily on digital systems and need access restored quickly. This urgency can lead some companies to pay the ransom without exploring other options.
There are several types of ransomware. Some lock you out of your computer completely. Others encrypt important files. Some go further by threatening to leak your data online if you don't pay.
Ransomware usually spreads through fake emails, outdated software, or weak remote access systems. Once inside, it can spread quickly across devices.
Why Ransomware Is Dangerous For Small Businesses?
For SMEs, a ransomware attack can be a serious setback. You could lose access to your data, customer records, and business tools.
There are also big costs involved. These include lost income, repair expenses, and possible legal trouble if data laws are breached.
Your reputation may suffer too. Clients might lose trust if they hear your systems were hacked. In some cases, this loss of confidence is more damaging than the attack itself.
Recovery can take days, weeks, or longer. Some businesses never fully return to normal after a serious cyberattack.
What Steps Will Help Protect Your Business from Ransomware?
There are seven several steps involved to protect your business. Lets have look them:
Back Up Your Data Often And Keep Copies Safe
Regular backups are one of the best ways to protect your business. If ransomware strikes, you can restore your systems without paying the ransom.
To be effective, backups should be stored separately from your main systems. This means attackers can't access them during an attack.
It's also important to check that your backups work. Run regular tests to confirm your files can be restored quickly and fully.
Don't rely on a single backup method. Use cloud services, external drives, or offsite servers for added protection.
Train Your Staff To Recognise Threats
Many cyberattacks start with human error. Someone clicks a bad link or opens a suspicious file, letting the malware in.
That’s why staff training is crucial. Teach your team how to spot phishing emails, avoid unknown links, and report anything odd.
Hold regular sessions to refresh their knowledge. The threat landscape changes often, and keeping your staff up to date is key.
You can also run fake phishing tests. These help you see who might need more training and show how your team reacts under pressure.
Keep Your Software Updated At All Times
Old software often contains bugs and gaps that hackers exploit. Keeping everything updated is a simple but powerful defence.
This includes your operating systems, business apps, and antivirus software. Out-of-date tools are a major risk to your company.
Use automatic updates where possible. This helps ensure all devices are patched without delay.
Speak to your IT provider if you’re unsure what needs updating. They can set up systems to track and apply updates for you.
Add Multi-Factor Authentication To Your Logins
Passwords are no longer enough to stop hackers. Adding a second step to logins can greatly improve your defences.
This second step could be a code sent to your phone or an app that verifies your identity. Even if someone steals your password, they won’t be able to log in without the extra step.
Tools like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator are easy to set up and use. They work well across many platforms.
Make sure your team understands why this is important. It may feel like a small hassle, but it blocks many attacks before they begin.
Protect All Devices With Strong Endpoint Security
Every phone, tablet, and laptop connected to your systems is a potential entry point for ransomware. That’s why endpoint protection is essential.
Good security tools scan for threats in real time and take action when something suspicious is detected. Some can even undo damage caused by ransomware.
Ask your IT team about options that include behaviour tracking and file rollback. These features make it harder for attackers to get past your defences.
The more devices you have, the more you need to monitor. Make endpoint security part of your daily operations.
Divide Your Network To Reduce The Impact
Network segmentation means separating parts of your business systems. This limits how far ransomware can spread if it gets in.
For example, you can keep customer data on one section and employee records on another. That way, an attack on one part won’t bring down the entire business.
Access to each area should be limited. Only people who need to see sensitive files should be able to access them.
This extra layer of control can slow down attackers and give you time to respond before things get worse.
Have A Clear Plan For When Things Go Wrong
No system is perfect. Even with strong security, there’s always a chance something could slip through. That’s why you need a solid incident response plan.
Your plan should explain exactly what to do if ransomware hits. Who should be called first? What systems need to be shut down? Who must be informed?
Practice your plan regularly. Run drills with your team so they know their roles. This saves time when every second counts.
Quick action can stop the damage from spreading and help you recover faster.
What To Do If You Are Attacked?
If ransomware strikes, don’t panic. First, disconnect any affected devices from the network to stop the attack from moving further.
Do not pay the ransom. There is no guarantee your files will be returned, and paying may encourage future attacks.
Call in professional help. Cybersecurity experts can guide your next steps and help recover your data safely.
Finally, inform your clients, partners, and regulators as needed. Being honest and transparent can help rebuild trust after the crisis.
The Right Tools Can Make All The Difference
Cybersecurity software is your front line of defence. Tools like firewalls, email filters, and endpoint detection systems can block attacks before they start.
Email filters scan for suspicious links and files. Firewalls stop unauthorised access. Advanced endpoint systems detect threats and isolate them before they spread.
Talk to your IT provider about what tools make sense for your business. The cost is often far less than the damage caused by an attack.
With the right setup, you’ll be better prepared for anything that comes your way.
Conclusion
Ransomware attacks are no longer rare or unlikely. They are a real threat to SMEs in 2025. From regular backups and staff training to using the right security tools, taking simple steps now can prevent major problems later. Every business, no matter its size, needs to be prepared. Waiting for an attack to happen is never a smart option.
If you are unsure where to begin or need expert support, Radium is here to help. Our team can guide you through every stage of securing your business. Contact Radium today to get the protection your SME needs against ransomware threats.
