A new report from cybersecurity consulting firm S-RM and strategic communications firm FGS Global reveals that ransomware attacks across Asia-Pacific surged by 59% year-on-year in 2025, with East and Southeast Asia recording the highest increase globally at 71%. The findings, published by TechPinas, draw from over 800 global incidents responded to by S-RM last year and highlight the region's growing exposure to sophisticated cyber threats.
The report warns that the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence by businesses is creating new vulnerabilities that cybercriminals are quick to exploit. Attackers are leveraging AI to accelerate attacks, craft more personalized extortion tactics, and target AI-powered systems and agents, raising concerns about the security of digital transformation initiatives across the region.
Experts note that ransomware incidents today extend beyond technical disruption, as attackers increasingly weaponize stricter data privacy regulations and media exposure to pressure organizations during negotiations. This evolving threat landscape demands that businesses strengthen cybersecurity posture while preparing for crisis response that accounts for legal and reputational risks.