Semperis: AI Used in 87% of Ransomware Attacks, Staff Threats Rise
Hoboken – October 14, 2026 -- Threat actors weaponized artificial intelligence in 87% of ransomware attacks, and 40% of attacks involved psychological or physical threats against staff, according to the 2026 Ransomware Risk Report published by identity-focused cyber resilience company Semperis. The study surveyed only organizations that were hit by ransomware gangs in the past 12 months.
Attackers followed through on 53% of threats against employees
Bad actors used psychological intimidation in nearly 25% of all attacks across the U.S., UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Singapore, Canada and Australia. In 53% of cases, victims reported that the hackers carried out their threats.
The personal toll was measurable: 23% of victims or family members were swatted, 25% of victims sought psychological and medical treatment, and 24% of victims or families hired personal security.