CrowdStrike Reports North America and Europe as Leading Targets for Ransomware Attacks

November 17, 2025

CrowdStrike's analysis highlights that North America and Europe are increasingly targeted by ransomware attacks, with over 22% attributable to entities in Europe. The report underscores the growing sophistication of these attacks and their significant financial impacts on affected organizations.

In a recent report by CrowdStrike, it was revealed that North America and Europe have emerged as significant targets for ransomware attacks, with over 22% of these cyber threats being traced back to entities within Europe. This staggering statistic highlights a pattern that cybersecurity experts have observed over the past few years—a distinct increase in the sophistication and frequency of ransomware operations, particularly in these regions. As cybercriminals refine their tactics, their ability to launch disruptive attacks on critical infrastructure and businesses continues to raise alarms among security professionals and governmental bodies alike.

One of the most concerning aspects of this trend is the evolving landscape of ransomware tactics, which now frequently incorporate double extortion methods. In these scenarios, attackers not only encrypt the victim's data but also steal sensitive information, threatening to release it if the ransom is not paid. This dual-pronged approach serves to intensify the pressure on victims, often leading to higher ransom amounts as organizations consider not only their operational standstill but also the potential leaks of confidential information.

CrowdStrike's data reflects an ongoing increase in the number of ransomware groups operating out of Europe and North America, with specific attention given to key threat actors who have made headlines in recent months. Cybersecurity analysts indicate that many of these groups are believed to have connections with state-sponsored actors, raising concerns about the implications of cyber warfare and geopolitical instability. For instance, groups such as REvil and LockBit have consistently been implicated in high-profile attacks against both private and public sector victims, indicating a highly organized and well-funded strategy behind these operations.

The financial impact of such attacks is becoming increasingly alarming. In their report, CrowdStrike quantifies the costs of ransomware incidents to be in the billions, as businesses face recovery expenses, ransom payments, and reputational damage. Specifically, organizations affected by ransomware could face recovery costs upwards of $2 million on average, illustrating the severe economic burden placed upon them. Industry leaders are calling for a collaborative approach to combat this trend, emphasizing the need for improved cybersecurity measures, incident response strategies, and public-private partnerships to bolster defenses.

As ransomware continues to evolve, so too must organizations' approaches to security and incident preparedness. CrowdStrike advocates for adopting a proactive security posture that incorporates threat intelligence, continuous monitoring, and robust response plans. The necessity of adopting frameworks such as the MITRE ATT&CK matrix enables businesses to understand potential attack vectors and prepare defenses accordingly, thus mitigating the risk associated with ransomware attacks.

Moreover, organizations are being urged to undergo regular security assessments to identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers. This proactive approach is critical, as cybercriminals continually revise their methodologies, making it essential for businesses and governments alike to remain vigilant. The involvement of multiple nations in this issue underscores the need for international cooperation and robust policy frameworks to fight against pervasive cyber threats effectively.

The implications of the recent surge in ransomware attacks extend far beyond the immediate effects on individual businesses. They signal a growing trend that could reshape regulatory landscapes and drive new compliance standards. With governments increasingly recognizing the impact of cyber threats on national security, we can expect to see more stringent regulations designed to enhance cybersecurity resilience across industries. As cybersecurity continues to top the agenda in both corporate and political spheres, the insights provided by CrowdStrike serve as a crucial reminder of the urgent need to take collective action against ransomware and the threat actors behind these attacks.