Europe is rapidly becoming one of the most attractive targets for ransomware gangs, according to new cybersecurity research. After a relatively quieter period in 2024 and 2025, ransomware activity has surged again across the region. Experts say attackers are increasingly focusing on European organizations because of the financial opportunities available. The trend shows that cybercriminals are expanding their operations rather than slowing down.
Researchers at Black Kite recorded 684 publicly disclosed ransomware attacks across Europe during the first four months of 2026. That figure represents a 55% increase compared to the same period in 2025, when 441 attacks were reported. The number is also higher than the 643 attacks recorded during the first half of 2025. These figures suggest that ransomware groups have returned with renewed intensity.
For years, the United States remained the primary target for ransomware operators, while Canada and the United Kingdom often followed behind. Europe was usually considered a step below those regions in terms of attack volume. However, security researchers now believe that this pattern is changing quickly. European countries are experiencing significant growth in ransomware incidents across multiple sectors.
Several countries have seen especially sharp increases in attacks during the opening months of 2026. Italy recorded a 92% rise in ransomware incidents compared to the same period last year. Spain experienced a 77% increase, while France reported a staggering 119% jump. These numbers highlight how rapidly the threat landscape is evolving across major European economies.
The rise is not limited to larger countries. Researchers also observed dramatic increases in several smaller European nations. Turkey experienced a 433% increase in reported ransomware attacks, while Romania saw a 333% rise. Poland recorded a 217% increase, showing that cybercriminals are targeting organizations across the continent regardless of national size.
Manufacturing companies remain the most heavily targeted sector in Europe. More than one-quarter of ransomware attacks recorded between January 2025 and April 2026 were directed at manufacturing organizations. Another significant share targeted professional, scientific, and technical services firms. Digital service providers were among the organizations most frequently affected by these campaigns.
Security experts believe the increase is linked to the growing ransomware-as-a-service ecosystem. Criminal groups can now access ready-made attack tools, infrastructure, and services without developing their own malware. This business-like model lowers the barrier to entry for cybercriminals and allows ransomware operations to scale much faster. As a result, more organizations are finding themselves in attackers’ crosshairs.
Researchers noted that Europe’s growing number of financially valuable organizations makes it an attractive destination for ransomware groups. While no single factor fully explains the surge, the overall trend is clear: ransomware activity is accelerating across the continent. Organizations are being urged to strengthen their cyber defenses, improve incident response capabilities, and prepare for a threat environment that continues to grow more aggressive each year.
Stay alert, and keep your security measures updated!
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