The Rise of AI-Driven Ransomware
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the landscape of ransomware, a type of cyberattack that has been a significant concern for organizations and individuals alike. The rapid development of AI tools is making it easier for attackers to launch more sophisticated and effective attacks. According to Dr. Darren Williams, CEO of BlackFog, a global cybersecurity start-up, the speed at which new AI tools are being developed is a significant concern for cybersecurity experts. “It’s not just that current AI tools are making cybercrime easier, but the speed at which new tools are being developed that concerns me,” he says.
How AI is Making Ransomware Faster and More Scalable
The volume of ransomware attacks has steadily increased over the past year, with a record-breaking number of incidents reported in the first three months of 2025. The use of AI tools is elevating attacks to a new level, enabling threat groups to strike more often and in greater numbers. Cybercriminals are using AI-powered tools to strip away the more time-consuming manual elements of their attacks, making it easier for the average group to launch an effective strike. This is particularly evident in the use of ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) models, which provide greater access to tools, tactics, and target lists.
AI-Driven Phishing is Making Initial Access Easier
AI tools are also being used to craft more personalized and convincing phishing emails, making it easier for attackers to gain initial access to a victim’s system. Generative AI (GenAI) tools can learn the style and tone of specific individuals, allowing attackers to write emails that are indistinguishable from those sent by legitimate companies. In addition to phishing emails, AI is also being used to create deepfake videos and audio that can be used to deceive victims. This technology is being used to create highly convincing videos and audio that can be used to trick victims into installing malware or divulging sensitive information.
AI-Enhanced Malware is Evading Detection
AI is also being used to enhance the effectiveness of malware, making it more difficult for security teams to detect and remove. Polymorphic ransomware, for example, uses AI to mutate its code in real-time, making it difficult for security software to detect. Self-learning capabilities and independent adaptability are increasing the chances of ransomware reaching critical systems and propagating before it can be detected and shut down. This means that organizations must adopt more sophisticated security measures to protect themselves against these types of attacks.
Fighting Against the New Frontier of AI Ransomware
While AI can be a powerful tool for attackers, it can also be used to defend against ransomware attacks. Advanced AI-driven detection and response solutions can analyze behavioral patterns in real-time, identifying anomalies that signature-based tools might miss. Continuous network monitoring can also help detect suspicious activity before ransomware can activate and spread. Additionally, AI solutions can be used to prevent data exfiltration, which is used in 95% of ransomware attacks.
The rise of AI-driven ransomware is a significant concern for organizations and individuals alike. As AI continues to evolve, it’s likely that we’ll see even more sophisticated and effective attacks. However, by adopting more advanced security measures and staying ahead of the curve, organizations can protect themselves against these types of attacks. By Dr. Darren Williams
Dr. Darren Williams is CEO and founder of BlackFog, a global cybersecurity start-up. He is responsible for strategic direction and leads global expansion for BlackFog and has pioneered data exfiltration technology for the prevention of cyberattacks across the globe.
Dr. Darren Williams is the CEO and founder of BlackFog, a global cybersecurity start-up.
