Cybercriminals are constantly moving the nefarious needle of malware, and 2024 was no exception. From hundreds of new pieces of malware being detected on the daily to an uptick in mobile device attacks and new strains, here are just some of the malware attack statistics we think you should know about: 

• Over 560,000 new pieces of malware are detected daily. 

• In the fourth quarter of 2024, we saw a 29% increase in incidentsfrom ransomware attacks alone.

• For mobile devices, adware accounted for 36% of all malware attacks. 

• A new strain of malware called SocGholish (aka FakeUpdates) accounted for 60% of attacks impacting Windows users. 

• As of 2024, the average cost of a data breach in the US alone (including malware attacks) is over $9 million. 

And while 65% of financial organizations were attacked by everyone’s favorite form of malware (ransomware), cybercriminals don’t just target large enterprises. They target small businesses, mid-size companies, government entities—anyone with vulnerabilities.  

Unfortunately, malware is all too common, and nearly every device connected to the internet is at risk. 

The most infamous reigning champion of malware is the phishing email, which tricks users into handing over data, credentials, and more. Coming in at a fast second place to phishing emails are compromised websites, as many phishing attempts try to get users to follow a URL. 

Other risks include drive-by downloads (malware that doesn’t need you to click anything), infected software and updates (even the most legitimate-looking apps can contain trojans), and removable media (infected USBs or other devices). 

• Over 1 billion malware programs exist. Our companies are hit with ransomware every minute. 

• The past decade has seen an 87% increase in malware attacks. 

Over 1 billion malware programs exist. Our companies are hit with ransomware every minute.
The past decade has seen an 87% increase in malware attacks.

Malware continues to be a real threat to businesses and individuals in the digital world. That said, with the proper security posture and cybersecurity strategy that keeps up with malware trends, you don’t have to be a victim.

Today’s malware is stealthier, faster, and often delivered through familiar vectors like phishing emails, drive-by downloads, or even compromised software updates. Attackers use advanced evasion techniques to bypass traditional antivirus tools, and some strains can sit undetected for weeks. Proactive defense—including endpoint detection, behavior-based monitoring, and continuous employee training—is essential to staying ahead of evolving threats. Regular patching, backups, and layered security tools further reduce your risk and strengthen your resilience.

The good news is that malware is not invincible, as the threat actors deploying it largely rely on human error and weak security practices to succeed. Cybercriminals can only deploy successful malware attacks if businesses and individuals: 

• Fail to update software regularly. 

• Engage in poor password hygiene. 

• Don’t have the cybersecurity awareness to spot suspicious links. 

• Lack of proper endpoint detection and response. 

Staying ahead of malware trends requires awareness, proactive defenses, and the right security solutions. The latest malware statistics paint a grim picture, but the right cybersecurity strategy turns the tables back on threat actors.

When it comes to stopping malware in its tracks, you need more than just luck and good intentions. You need real, relentless protection. Huntress’ Managed EDR doesn’t just sit back and watch threats unfold. It actively detects them before they can wreak havoc on your systems.

With 24/7 monitoring, behavioral analysis, and expert human threat hunters, Huntress identifies and isolates malicious activity fast—minimizing damage, reducing downtime, and keeping your business running smoothly.

Want to see how Huntress turns the tables on cybercriminals? Check out our Managed EDR with Malicious Process Behavior Detection to learn how we identify and eliminate threats that slip past traditional defenses. Because when it comes to cybersecurity, being reactive isn’t enough. It’s time to fight back.