A new cybersecurity report indicates a fundamental shift in the primary objectives of cybercriminals, moving away from disruptive ransomware attacks toward long-term, stealthy system infiltration. The findings, published in the Picus Labs Red Report 2026, are based on an analysis of more than 1.1 million malicious files and 15.5 million adversarial actions observed throughout 2025.
From Disruption to Dwell Time
The report concludes that attackers are no longer primarily optimizing for immediate financial gain through encryption and ransom demands. Instead, the data shows a clear trend toward establishing persistent, undetected access within victim networks. This strategy prioritizes prolonged dwell time over immediate disruption.
This evolution represents a significant change in the cyber threat landscape. For years, ransomware attacks, which lock data and demand payment for its return, have dominated headlines and defensive strategies. The new findings suggest that while ransomware remains a threat, it may no longer be the most prevalent or dangerous end goal for sophisticated threat actors.
Implications for Global Security
The shift toward stealth and persistence has serious implications for organizations worldwide. A long-term digital presence allows attackers to conduct espionage, steal sensitive data gradually, or lay the groundwork for future, more destructive attacks. This method is often harder to detect and can cause more extensive damage over time than a single, loud ransomware event.
Security experts note that this tactic aligns with the goals of state-sponsored groups and advanced persistent threats (APTs), which value intelligence and sustained access. However, the report indicates the techniques are now being adopted more widely across the cybercriminal ecosystem.
Defensive Adjustments Required
The change in attacker behavior necessitates a parallel shift in defensive postures. Traditional security measures focused on preventing initial breach and encrypting backups may be insufficient against adversaries who aim to hide within a network. The report underscores the increased importance of detection capabilities, network monitoring, and threat-hunting teams.
Identifying subtle, low-volume anomalies in network traffic and user behavior becomes critical. Security strategies must now account for the possibility that an attacker has already gained entry and is operating quietly to expand their access and achieve strategic objectives.
Looking Ahead
Industry analysts expect this trend of “digital residency” to continue and intensify throughout 2026 and beyond. Cybersecurity firms and internal IT departments are anticipated to increase investment in advanced detection and response tools, employee training on phishing and social engineering, and zero-trust security architectures that limit lateral movement within networks. The ongoing evolution underscores that cyber defense is a dynamic challenge requiring constant adaptation to the changing tactics of adversaries.
Source: Picus Labs Red Report 2026
