What would you do if you arrived at work tomorrow and all your files were suddenly gone?

Not just missing, but locked up. Encrypted and held for ransom by criminals demanding a huge payment just to get them back.

This might sound dramatic, but it is the reality of ransomware—and it is getting worse.

In the first quarter of 2025, ransomware attacks hit a new high, up 84 percent compared to the same time last year.

It is no longer a question of if your business might be targeted, but when.

Two-thirds of businesses have been hit by ransomware in the last two years. That is the kind of statistic that makes you stop and think about how prepared your business really is.

Here is some good news. There is a very effective way to protect your business: immutable backup storage.

Let’s break that down.

First, a quick reminder about ransomware. It is a type of cyberattack where criminals get into your systems, encrypt your files, and then demand a ransom to unlock them.

It is nasty stuff.

These attacks do not just go after your day-to-day files anymore. According to recent research, 96 percent of businesses hit by ransomware in the last two years also had their backups targeted.

That is right. Attackers know that safety net you count on, and they are coming for it.

This is where immutable backup storage becomes essential.

Immutable means unchangeable. With immutable storage, once your backup data is written, it cannot be edited, deleted, or overwritten. Not even by someone with admin access.

So, if a ransomware attacker does get into your system, they still cannot tamper with these backups. It is like putting your most important information into a vault, locking it up, and making sure nobody else can get in. You still have secure access when you need it most.

Traditionally, businesses handled this by storing backups on devices that were physically disconnected from the network. That is called air-gapped storage.

Now, there are smarter, cloud-based options that offer the same level of protection without the bulky equipment or complicated routines.

Why is not every business using immutable backups?

It is a good question. Even though 81 percent of IT professionals say it is the best protection against ransomware, only 59 percent of businesses are actually using it. That gap puts a lot of organizations at risk.

These days, security tools like firewalls and antivirus software are important, but they are not enough. If ransomware gets through, your last line of defense is your backups.

Those backups need to be truly untouchable.

Think of it as having a “breach mentality.” Assume an attack will happen sooner or later. That means focusing on recovery, not just prevention.

Investing in immutable backup storage is one of the smartest moves you can make right now. If the worst happens, being able to restore your data quickly and safely without paying a ransom could be what saves your business.

Want help getting started with immutable storage or reviewing your backup plan? Our team is ready to help. Reach out any time.