Data Analytics
Case Study: Ransomware Response and Recovery
Overview
A leading Data Analytics firm operating in both Indian and international markets experienced a sudden ransomware attack that encrypted critical project files, client data and server backups. The attacker demanded $30,000 in Bitcoin to decrypt the files. The company contacted Securiglobe as their incident response partner to assess, contain and recover from the breach without giving in to the ransom.
Business Needs
Immediate containment and recovery from the ransomware threat. Avoid ransom payment and prevent client data loss or exposure. Resume business operations and restore mission-critical systems. Identify the root cause and establish preventive measures against future threats. Maintain client trust and regulatory compliance.
Problems and Challenges
The ransomware had encrypted data on file servers, workstations and backup drives. There was no recent offsite backup of several ongoing projects. The ransomware had propagated laterally, affecting multiple departments within minutes. Internal IT teams were unprepared for containment or forensic investigation. There was significant pressure from stakeholders to decide quickly—pay the ransom or find an alternative.
Solutions
Securiglobe initiated an emergency Incident Response and Digital Forensics engagement: Isolated and segmented the network to contain the ransomware’s spread. Used memory forensics and reverse engineering to understand the ransomware variant and behavior. Deployed EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) tools to identify persistence mechanisms and clean infected endpoints. Leveraged file recovery techniques and shadow volume analysis to restore encrypted data—without paying the ransom. Coordinated with the client’s legal and compliance teams to report and document the incident responsibly. Delivered a post-incident hardening plan, including network segmentation, backup strategy, user access controls and staff training.
Benefits
Successfully recovered 98% of affected data without paying the $30,000 ransom. Contained the attack within 8 hours, preventing further spread and damage. Restored business operations in less than 48 hours. Identified the root cause: a phishing email leading to a compromised user account. Built an improved cybersecurity posture, including multi-layered defenses and regular security assessments. Strengthened stakeholder and client confidence through transparency and effective response.
Project Scope: Ransomware Readiness
Project Duration: 2 Business Days