Ransomware Attacks Surge by 25% in October
New data from Comparitech reveals a sharp 25% increase in ransomware attacks during October, rising from 546 incidents in September to 684. This spike marks the third-highest monthly total of 2025.
Targeted Sectors
- Manufacturing: The most targeted sector, with 121 attacks, representing nearly 19% of total incidents. Attacks in this sector rose by 9% compared to the previous month.
- Healthcare: Experiencing a significant jump from 26 to 56 attacks, an increase of 115%.
- Transportation: Increased by 109% in attack numbers.
- Retail: Attacks doubled, rising by 104%.
Ransomware Groups and Impact
October saw ransomware group Qilin exceed 700 claimed attacks this year, becoming the most active group in 2025 with 186 victims reported in October alone.
Confirmed Attacks Breakdown
Out of the 684 attacks, 47 were confirmed by the victims. These include:
- 27 targeted businesses
- 10 hit government organizations
- 3 affected healthcare companies
- 7 involved educational institutions
Unconfirmed Attacks Breakdown
The remaining 637 unconfirmed attacks were reported as:
- 561 targeting businesses
- 14 affecting government entities
- 53 on healthcare organizations
- 8 targeting educational institutions
"Ransomware attacks jumped 25% in October, climbing from 546 in September to 684, marking a significant increase in attacks and the third-highest monthly total this year."
"Manufacturers remained the most targeted sector, accounting for nearly 19% of reported incidents (121), though attacks in this sector rose by a more modest 9% month over month."
"October saw ransomware gang Qilin surpass the 700 mark for the number of attack claims posted to its data leak site this year so far, making it the most active ransomware group of 2025."
Author's summary: In October 2025, ransomware attacks rose sharply by 25%, with manufacturers most targeted, while healthcare and transportation sectors faced the largest increases, led by ransomware group Qilin's record activity.