Ransomware Attacks Surge in India; Manufacturing Firms Among Most Affected: Report

Apr 14 (BNP): India has emerged as a major target for cybercriminals, becoming the Asia-Pacific hotspot for ransomware attacks, with the manufacturing sector among the worst affected, according to a recent industry report.

The study highlights that a significant share of impacted organisations in India’s manufacturing sector were forced to pay ransom demands in 2025, underscoring the growing financial and operational risks posed by cyberattacks.

Experts note that ransomware groups are increasingly targeting industrial operations, where disruptions can halt production, impact supply chains, and cause large-scale financial losses.

The report also points to a rising trend of extortion-based attacks, where data is stolen and companies are pressured into paying to prevent its release or to restore access.

India’s rapid digitalisation and expanding industrial base have made it an attractive target for global cybercriminal networks, particularly those focusing on high-value sectors like manufacturing.

Security experts warn that unless organisations strengthen cyber defences and invest in advanced threat detection systems, such attacks are likely to continue rising in frequency and severity.