Ransomware attacks rise 50% in 2025 as on-chain payments fall 8% to $820 million

eCrime. founder Corsin Camichel said the gap suggests attackers are targeting small and medium enterprises while earning less from blockchain-traceable payments.

Summary

Ransomware attacks increased 50% year over year in 2025 even as on-chain payments fell 8% to $820 million, pointing to a widening gap between attack volume and crypto-linked proceeds. eCrime. founder Corsin Camichel said the divergence suggests attackers are "working harder for diminishing returns" as they shift their focus to small and medium enterprises. The figures indicate that more incidents are not necessarily translating into higher visible blockchain payments, a sign that pressure on victims, collection patterns or payment channels may be changing.

Terms & Concepts
  • on-chain payments: Transactions recorded on a blockchain.
  • ransomware: Malware that locks data for payment.