0 – 400 Days: The Highest Risk of Repeat Attacks
The first year after an attack is often the most dangerous. Cybercriminals may return to exploit the same vulnerabilities, or other ransomware groups may target the victim after stolen data circulates on dark web marketplaces. If security measures aren’t significantly improved during this period, organisations face a high likelihood of re-victimisation.
400 – 800 Days: Resurfacing on the Dark Web
As time passes, previously stolen data remains valuable. Threat actors may re-use old credentials, exploit residual security weaknesses, or identify indirect attack vectors through supply chain partners. Even after an extended period of no activity, organisations should not assume the threat has disappeared.
800 – 1,200 Days: Long-Term Exploitation Risks
Some victims are targeted years after their initial breach, either due to historic data leaks resurfacing or because cybercriminals resell previously compromised information to new ransomware groups. The longer an organisation goes without updating its security posture, the higher the risk that previously stolen assets will be weaponised again.