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FBI issues new ransomware warning

FBI Warns Businesses About Interlock Ransomware: How to Protect Your Data

When was the last time you stopped to think, “What would actually happen to my business if all our files were suddenly locked away?”

That’s exactly the nightmare scenario the FBI is warning about right now. They’ve issued a new security alert about a dangerous ransomware group called Interlock.

What Is Interlock Ransomware?

Interlock only appeared in September 2024, but they’re already making a name for themselves by targeting businesses and infrastructure in North America and Europe.

Their goal is simple: money. Here’s their playbook:

Break into your systems
Quietly steal sensitive data
Encrypt everything so you can’t access it
Demand a ransom with a short deadline (about four days)
Threaten to leak your files on the dark web if you don’t pay

This “double-extortion” method has become standard among ransomware gangs, but Interlock is proving very aggressive.

How Interlock Gains Access

They use clever tactics like fake browser or security updates, booby-trapped websites, and other tricks designed to make you click without thinking. Once inside, they deploy malicious tools to:

Spy on your activity
Steal passwords
Move through your network
Lock down files

They’re not picky about systems either. Interlock has tools for both Windows and Linux, meaning almost any business could be a target.

Why SMBs Are Prime Targets

Ransomware doesn’t just hit big companies. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are prime targets because attackers know security budgets are smaller and defenses are weaker.

Imagine losing access to client files, financial data, or critical systems. Even if you recover, the reputational damage can be just as costly as the downtime.

FBI’s Recommended Security Measures

The FBI’s advice is clear:

Patch and update systems regularly
Enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible
Use web filtering and firewalls to block malicious sites
Segment your network to limit infection spread
Invest in security tools that detect and stop suspicious behavior early

Acting now is far less painful (and cheaper) than dealing with the aftermath of an attack. The FBI doesn’t issue warnings lightly—Interlock isn’t going away anytime soon.