Crypto Fuels Ransomware: $813M Flows Despite 126% Attack Surge

A hidden economy of cryptocurrency payments sustains global ransomware attacks, with billions in illicit funds flowing annually despite a decline from $1.25 billion in 2023 to $813 million last year. Attacks have surged 126% in early 2025, evolving with AI and higher demands. Governments and firms are intensifying crackdowns and defenses to disrupt this cycle.