FBI Issues New Ransomware Warning

When was the last time you stopped to think, “What would actually happen to my business if all our files were suddenly locked away?”

That nightmare scenario is exactly what the FBI is warning about right now. In its latest cybersecurity alert, the agency has raised the alarm over a rapidly growing ransomware threat that could impact businesses of all sizes.

The FBI issues new ransomware warning focused on a group called Interlock—a dangerous collective that’s already making waves across North America and Europe.

Meet Interlock: A New, Aggressive Ransomware Group

Interlock may be a relatively new name in the cybercrime world, first appearing in September 2024, but it has quickly gained attention for its aggressive tactics and wide reach.

This group is motivated purely by profit. Their method is as ruthless as it is effective:

1. Break into a company’s network.

2. Steal sensitive data quietly, often without anyone noticing.

3. Encrypt files so employees can’t access critical systems or information.

4. Demand ransom—usually with a short deadline of just a few days.

If victims refuse to pay, Interlock threatens to publish the stolen data on the dark web, exposing confidential information to anyone willing to look. This “double extortion” model has become the norm among modern ransomware groups, but Interlock has taken it to new extremes with its speed, sophistication, and persistence.

How They Get In: Deceptive Tactics and Advanced Tools

The FBI’s recent alert details how Interlock gains access to corporate networks, and the tactics might sound familiar. Attackers are setting up fake software or browser updates, compromised websites, and even spoofed security notifications designed to trick users into clicking.

Once inside, the malware deploys a toolkit that gives the hackers full control—letting them move across your network, collect passwords, monitor user activity, and eventually lock down every essential file.

Worse still, Interlock doesn’t discriminate by platform. They’ve developed tools to target both Windows and Linux systems, which means nearly any business, regardless of its IT setup, could be vulnerable.

That’s why this latest FBI ransomware warning should serve as a wake-up call—not just for large corporations, but for small and mid-sized businesses as well.

Why Small and Mid-Sized Businesses Should Pay

Attention

Many smaller businesses assume they’re not on hackers’ radars. Unfortunately, that’s a costly misconception.

Cybercriminals often see SMBs as “easier wins.” With smaller IT teams and tighter budgets, these organizations might not have the same advanced security infrastructure as large enterprises. But the damage ransomware can cause—lost data, downtime, reputational harm—can be devastating regardless of company size.

Imagine losing access to your customer database, accounting software, or essential project files overnight. Even if you can

restore from backups, the disruption could last days or weeks. And if sensitive information gets leaked, the trust you’ve built with clients could take months—or years—to rebuild.

That’s why the FBI’s new ransomware warning isn’t just a headline—it’s a reminder that proactive cybersecurity is now a business necessity, not an option.

The FBI’s Recommendations to Stay Protected

The good news? There are clear steps you can take right now to protect your organization. The FBI issues new ransomware warning with specific recommendations to help minimize risk:

• Keep systems patched and updated. Outdated software is one of the easiest ways for attackers to get in.

• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA). Adding that extra verification step can block the majority of unauthorized login attempts.

• Use web filtering and firewalls. Prevent employees from accessing known malicious sites before they become a problem.

• Segment your network. Isolate sensitive systems so that if one area gets infected, the entire business doesn’t go down.

• Invest in advanced threat detection tools. Modern solutions can spot suspicious activity before it spreads, stopping ransomware in its tracks.

While these measures might sound technical, they’re essential. Taking preventive action now is far less painful—and far less expensive—than trying to recover after an attack.

Stay Ahead of the Threat

The fact that the FBI issues new ransomware warning about Interlock so soon after its emergence should tell you everything you need to know: this group is sophisticated, aggressive, and here to stay.

Cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue—it’s a business continuity issue. By taking proactive measures, you’re protecting not only your data but also your reputation, your clients, and your future.

Get Your Cybersecurity Prevention Evaluated

At Elite Technology Solutions Group, we specialize in helping businesses strengthen their defenses before threats like Interlock strike.

Our team can evaluate your cybersecurity posture, identify vulnerabilities, and implement practical solutions to keep your systems protected against modern ransomware and other evolving threats.

Don’t wait for a crisis. Contact Elite Technology Solutions Group today to schedule your cybersecurity prevention evaluation and make sure your organization is ready—no matter what comes next.