During this session at Hazardex Live 2025, TÜV Rheinland Cyber Security Team Leader David Allen will be highlighting some of the ransomware risks you may not know along with some of the pitfalls companies make, which you can look to avoid.

As we enter 2025, ransomware continues to pose a critical threat to high-hazard industries, where operational disruptions can have catastrophic consequences.

Despite advancements in cybersecurity, sophisticated ransomware groups like LockBit and Black Basta remain dominant, evolving their tactics to evade defences and increase their leverage over victims.

These groups employ multi-extortion strategies, not only encrypting data but also threatening to publicly release sensitive information and disrupt operations unless substantial ransoms are paid.  Companies affected by these attacks often face difficult decisions, balancing the need for rapid recovery with the potential long-term costs of paying ransoms.

Understanding these dynamics is essential for high-hazard industries to strengthen their defences and improve resilience against one of the most pervasive cyber threats of the decade. 

About the author:

David Allen is the UK OT Cyber Security Team Leader within TÜV Rheinland Industrial Services. He is a Chartered Engineer with over 16 years of experience specializing in Industrial Automation, David has played a pivotal role in every phase of project management, from consulting to after-care services. As a certified Cyber security specialist and course tutor on the TÜV Cyber security training courses, he has made significant contributions to many sectors globally, including Oil & Gas, Chemicals, Energy, and Offshore assets.