Cybersecurity firm McAfee predicts decrease in ransomware in 2017

Ransomware, malicious software designed to block access to a computer system until money is paid, was the fastest-growing cybersecurity threat during 2016. 

But researchers at McAfee Labs are predicting “decisive action” from the cybersecurity field that should decrease the threat in 2017.

“Ransomware will remain a very significant threat until the second half of 2017,” McAfee stated in its report.

“Ransomware-as-a-service, custom ransomware for sale in dark markets, and creative derivatives from open-source ransomware code will keep the security industry busy through the first half of the year.”

Ransomware has increased in prevalence in recent years due to the introduction and anonymity of cryptocurrency bitcoin.

“We predict that initiatives like the No More Ransom! collaboration, the development and release of anti-ransomware technologies, and continued law enforcement actions will reduce the volume and effectiveness of ransomware attacks by the end of 2017,” McAfee wrote.

Other predictions for 2017 from McAfee included fewer software vulnerabilities on Windows and Adobe – but more on other platforms including open-source software. 

In addition, threats to mobile devices and Internet-connected devices are likely to increase.

Read the full report of top threats expected in 2017.