A new report by cybersecurity firm S-RM and strategic communications firm FGS Global, published by TechPinas , reveals that ransomware attacks across Asia-Pacific accelerated sharply in 2025. Drawing from over 800 global incidents handled by S-RM, the report found that more than 770 organizations in the region were named on ransomware leak sites last year, a 59% year-on-year increase. East and Southeast Asia recorded the fastest global growth rate at 71%.
The surge is closely tied to the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence by businesses, which cybercriminals are exploiting to accelerate attacks, craft more personalized extortion tactics, and target vulnerabilities introduced by AI-powered systems. The report warns that AI is not only driving efficiency for legitimate enterprises but also lowering the barrier for sophisticated cybercrime.
Experts note that modern ransomware incidents go beyond technical disruption. Attackers are increasingly weaponizing stricter data privacy regulations and media exposure to pressure organizations during negotiations and crisis response. The findings underscore a rapidly evolving threat landscape where digitalization, AI, and regulatory complexity converge to heighten risks for Asia-Pacific businesses.