'This is a sales tactic': Experts warn ransomware hackers will often lower their prices - with some giving discounts up to 96%
Ransomware hackers are reportedly using various sales tactics to negotiate payments, including offering steep discounts. Research indicates that while leaking stolen data remains a common pressure tactic, many negotiations result in significant price reductions, with discounts averaging 57% and reaching up to 96%. Experts advise caution, as the promises made by these cybercriminals are often unverifiable.
- ▪A quarter of ransomware negotiations result in payment, but most pay less than the initial asking price.
- ▪Discounts offered by ransomware actors can be as high as 96.2%, with a median discount of 57%.
- ▪Attackers often employ tactics like bundling services and upselling to manipulate victims into paying.
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Pro Security 'This is a sales tactic': Experts warn ransomware hackers will often lower their prices - with some giving discounts up to 96% News By Sead Fadilpašić published 25 May 2026 Ransomware actors use a whole range of different tactics When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. (Image credit: Shutterstock) Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Threads Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter NordStellar finds many ransomware negotiations go unpaid, usually at steep discounts (median 57%, max 96.2%)Attackers used varied tactics: bundling “services,” offering fake security audits, proof of data, press threats,…
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