Global Cyber Attacks Ease in May 2026, But Ransomware Surges 48% As Threats Reorganize

In May 2026, overall cyber-attack numbers dropped slightly month-over-month, but ransomware (malware that locks files and demands payment to unlock them) surged 48% compared to the previous year, and AI-powered risks to data security continued growing. Security researchers warn that the temporary decrease in total attacks doesn't mean organizations are actually safer, since threats are shifting toward more damaging methods.