Imagine walking into work tomorrow morning and discovering that every single file your business relies on – documents, emails, client records – has vanished. Not deleted, but encrypted and held hostage by cyber criminals demanding a hefty ransom.
This is ransomware. And it’s no longer a far-off threat. It’s happening right now, to businesses just like yours.
In the first quarter of 2025 alone, ransomware attacks surged by a staggering 84% compared to the same period last year. According to Sophos’ 2024 State of Ransomware report, two-thirds of businesses have already experienced at least one ransomware incident in the last two years. The question is no longer if your business might be targeted, but when.
So, what can you do?
The Most Effective Protection Isn’t What You Think
You’ve probably invested in firewalls, antivirus software, and strict user permissions. All essential, of course – but they’re not fool proof. Ransomware has a way of slipping through the cracks.
That’s why one of the smartest steps you can take right now is to implement immutable backup storage.
What Is Ransomware, and Why Is It So Dangerous?
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that infiltrates your systems, encrypts your data, and demands a ransom payment to unlock it. These attacks are highly sophisticated, often bypassing standard security measures.
And it’s not just your working files at risk anymore.
In 96% of ransomware incidents reported over the past two years, the attackers also attempted to compromise backup systems. They know that if they can destroy your backups, you’re far more likely to pay the ransom.
Introducing Immutable Backup Storage
“Immutable” means unchangeable. When you store data immutably, it can’t be modified, deleted, or overwritten – even by someone with admin rights.
That means if ransomware finds its way into your systems, it still can’t touch your critical backups. Think of it as a digital vault: your data is locked inside, but you retain safe, controlled access when needed.
Traditionally, businesses achieved this kind of protection by using “air-gapped” backup systems – storage devices physically disconnected from the network. While still effective, this approach can be cumbersome and difficult to maintain.
Thankfully, today’s cloud-based immutable storage solutions offer the same high level of protection with much greater flexibility. No bulky equipment. No complex routines. Just secure, untouchable backups you can restore from in minutes.
So Why Isn’t Everyone Doing This?
It’s a valid question.
Despite 81% of IT professionals recognising immutable backup as the best defence against ransomware, only 59% of businesses have implemented it. That gap is putting thousands of organisations at unnecessary risk.
In today’s threat landscape, traditional security hardening simply isn’t enough. Your final safety net – the one thing that lets you recover quickly without paying a ransom – is your backup system. If it’s not immutable, it’s not safe.
Adopting a “Breach Mentality”
Cyber security is no longer just about building the tallest walls. It’s about preparing for the worst and ensuring you can bounce back fast.
At Aztek, we encourage our clients to adopt a breach mentality – the mindset that an attack will happen eventually. And when it does, you need a backup system that ransomware can’t touch.
Immutable backup storage is one of the best investments you can make to protect your business continuity. It gives you peace of mind, knowing that even in the event of a breach, you can recover your data quickly, securely, and without giving in to criminals.
Lets Strengthen Your Backup Strategy
Whether you’re unsure where to start with immutable storage or you’d like a second opinion on your existing setup, our expert team is here to help.
Let’s talk about keeping your business safe. Get in touch today.
