When last did you stop and really consider this: What would happen to my business if all our files were suddenly locked and out of reach?

That’s exactly the scenario the FBI is highlighting in a new security advisory. They’ve released a fresh alert about a fast-growing ransomware group known as Interlock.

If the name’s unfamiliar, here’s the key information…

Interlock only surfaced in September 2024, yet they’ve already made a significant impact by targeting organisations and infrastructure across North America and Europe.

And their motive is simple: money. Their method follows a familiar pattern — they infiltrate your systems, quietly extract sensitive data, encrypt everything, and then demand payment. Victims are usually given a short deadline of around four days to pay, or the attackers threaten to leak the stolen data on the dark web.

This “double-extortion” technique is common among ransomware operators, but Interlock is proving particularly aggressive.

Their entry tactics are cunning. They use fake browser or security updates, compromised websites, and other tricks designed to make someone click without thinking. Once inside, they deploy a range of malicious tools to monitor activity, harvest passwords, move laterally through your network, and lock down critical files.

They’re also not tied to one type of system. With tools designed to hit both Windows and Linux environments, almost any business is a potential target.

So what does this mean for your business?

The truth is that ransomware doesn’t only affect the global giants you read about online. Small and medium-sized businesses are often targeted because cyber criminals assume their defences — and budgets — are more limited.

Imagine losing access to client records, financial information, or essential operational systems. Even if you manage to recover, the reputational fallout can be just as damaging as the downtime itself.

Here’s what you can do to reduce the risk:

The FBI recommends:

  • Keep all systems patched and updated to close known security gaps.
  • Use multi-factor authentication (that extra step after your password) wherever possible — it’s one of the easiest ways to block attackers.
  • Implement web filtering and firewalls to stop access to malicious sites.
  • Segment your network so that an infection in one area doesn’t take down the entire business.
  • Most importantly, invest in security tools that detect and contain suspicious behaviour before it spreads.

It may feel technical, but taking action now is far easier — and far cheaper — than dealing with a full ransomware incident. The FBI’s warning is serious. Interlock is not slowing down, and now is the ideal moment to ensure your business isn’t their next target.

Need help strengthening your business’s IT security? Contact GZD for guidance tailored to your environment.

Give us a call  ‣  031 818 9060