The Huntress 2025 Cyber Threat Report confirms what many small businesses and schools have feared: cyber threats are evolving at an unprecedented rate. Advanced attacks once aimed at large enterprises are now being repurposed for smaller organisations. Cyber criminals are exploiting vulnerabilities in remote access tools, deploying ransomware at lightning speed, and adapting phishing techniques to bypass traditional defences.
In this environment, organisations must adopt proactive strategies to secure their operations. Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions is committed to protecting schools and small businesses with industry-leading tools like Huntress.
Key findings from the 2025 Huntress report
1. Ransomware is evolving
Ransomware groups like RansomHub and Akira accounted for 54% of incidents in 2024, targeting small businesses with high-speed attacks. The average time-to-ransom (TTR) for groups like Akira was as little as six hours, leaving victims with almost no time to respond. Instead of encrypting data, many groups now focus on theft and extortion, bypassing traditional defences.
Black Swan’s solution:
Our layered defences, powered by Huntress, Heimdal and Avanan, help detect ransomware early by monitoring activity at every stage of the attack.
2. Exploitation of RMM tools
Trusted software like ConnectWise, TeamViewer, and LogMeIn have become a prime target for cyber criminals. In 2024, 17.3% of remote access methods were linked to RMM abuse. These tools allow attackers to move laterally and maintain persistence, often going undetected.
Black Swan’s solution:
By deploying advanced endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions like Huntress, we monitor the use of RMM tools in your environment and block unauthorised access.
3. Industry-specific threats
- Education sector: Malicious scripts accounted for 24% of attacks, with many disguised as legitimate updates. RMM abuse was also prevalent.
- Small businesses: Cyber criminals exploited outdated software and inadequate security practices, favouring quick, low-effort attacks.
Black Swan’s solution:
We specialise in securing schools, small businesses, and other vulnerable sectors. Our solutions include robust patch management and phishing simulation training through platforms like KnowBe4 and Usecure to educate staff on emerging threats.
4. Rising sophistication in phishing
Techniques like QR code phishing and brand impersonation bypass traditional email filters, targeting individuals directly. Attackers are even using AI to personalise phishing emails.
Black Swan’s solution:
With Huntress’ cutting-edge detection capabilities, Avanan email filtering, and our security awareness training tools, we help organisations build resilience against phishing attempts.
How Black Swan protects your organisation
Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions provides tailored, compliance-led services that combine industry expertise with state-of-the-art tools like Huntress. Our services include:
- 24/7 Threat Monitoring: Constant oversight to detect and neutralise threats before they escalate.
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Advanced defences to monitor and protect against sophisticated attacks.
- Phishing simulations: Training staff to recognize and respond to phishing attempts.
- Patch management: Keeping your systems up-to-date to close security gaps.
Whether you’re a school, a care provider, or a small business, we offer solutions tailored to your unique needs and budget.
Cyber threats aren’t slowing down, but with the right defences, your organisation doesn’t have to be a victim. Partner with Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions and let us help you build a safer, more secure future.
Contact us today to learn how we can protect your organisation.
