Ransomware in Latin America: Why is proactive cybersecurity no longer optional?

In an increasingly digitized world, cyber threats pose a constant risk to businesses. Among them, ransomware stands out as one of the most destructive and lucrative for cybercriminals. This type of malware not only blocks access to critical data, but can also paralyze entire operations, generating millions in losses.

In Latin America, ransomware has experienced alarming growth, with a 70% increase in attacks in 2024 compared to other regions, such as North America. *

According to reports, in 2025, ransomware attacks in the region exceeded 1.1 million, mainly affecting countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina. Faced with this reality, the question is no longer whether a company will be attacked, but how prepared it is to respond.

This is where a proactive cybersecurity approach comes into play: a centralized operation that monitors systems 24/7, identifies anomalous behavior, and acts before a threat becomes a crisis. This approach is what we know today as a Security Operations Center (SOC).

For many organizations, especially in Latin America, managed SOCs have become an efficient way to access advanced security capabilities without the complexity of operating them internally.

In this article, we will explore the characteristics of ransomware, the role of the SOC, and how it protects businesses.

Ransomware Characteristics: Understanding the Threat

Ransomware is malicious software designed to encrypt files or lock systems, demanding payment—usually in cryptocurrency—to restore access. Its main features distinguish it from other malware: first, it uses unbreakable encryption, which prevents victims from recovering their data without the key provided by the attackers. There are variants such as encryptors, which encrypt individual files, and screen lockers, which block the entire device. Another key feature is the ransom demand, accompanied by threats such as the exposure of stolen data if the ransom is not paid.

In terms of propagation, ransomware infiltrates through phishing emails, vulnerabilities in outdated software, or supply chain attacks. Once inside, it spreads rapidly across the network, affecting multiple devices. In Latin America, ransomware has evolved into more sophisticated forms, such as “ransomware-as-a-service” (RaaS), where criminal groups rent tools to affiliates, facilitating massive attacks. Ransomware is not only a technical threat but also a financial risk: the average cost per incident in 2023 was $1.85 million, an increase of 13% over the last five years.

Recent studies reveal that the most vulnerable sectors in Latin America include finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. In Brazil, for example, 38 incidents were recorded in the second quarter of 2025, representing 6% of global attacks in industrial environments. This trend underscores the need for proactive defenses, as paying the ransom does not guarantee recovery and may encourage further attacks.

What is a Security Operations Center (SOC)?

A Security Operations Center (SOC) is a centralized unit dedicated to monitoring, detecting, and responding to cyber threats in real time. It functions as the “control center” for an organization's cybersecurity, integrating tools, processes, and specialized personnel to maintain system integrity.

Key features of a SOC include: 24/7 continuous monitoring of networks, endpoints, and applications; analysis of data from multiple sources such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and activity logs. In addition, it incorporates technologies such as artificial intelligence for automated detection and orchestration tools to coordinate responses.

In Latin America, where cyber resources can be limited, many businesses opt for external or hybrid SOCs, which combine internal staff with managed services. This allows SMEs to access high-level expertise without massive investments. According to experts, an effective SOC reduces threat detection time from days to minutes, minimizing damage.

How SOCs Protect Your Business Against Ransomware

SOCs are essential for combating ransomware, as they operate using a layered approach: prevention, detection, and response. In the prevention phase, the SOC performs regular vulnerability scans and applies patches, closing common entry points such as outdated software. It also educates staff about phishing, a major vector for ransomware in Latin America.

In detection, the SOC monitors suspicious activity in real time, such as unauthorized access or patterns of mass encryption. It identifies ransomware in its early stages, before it spreads. For example, if a malicious file attempts to encrypt data, the SOC generates automatic alerts and isolates the affected device.

Strengthen your defense with Ricoh Global Security Operations Center (Ricoh SOC)

Ultimately, proactive cybersecurity is the best investment against ransomware but only 14% of organizations in Latin America are confident that their IT teams have the skills required to tackle cybercrime, according to the World Economic Forum.

In Latin America, cybersecurity is key in the face of increasing threats such as ransomware and phishing. That's why at Ricoh LATAM, we offer your company our Global Security Operations Center with Level 1 and 2 resolution services managed by certified experts to monitor, detect, analyze, and respond to security incidents, ensuring your business is protected 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you would like to learn more about how we can support your company with these services in your country, leave us your details and one of our experts will contact you! Ricoh LATAM Service Channels | Ricoh Latin America