A large retail chain falls victim to ransomware, with attackers demanding payment to restore access to encrypted data. Which type of threat actor is most likely responsible for this attack?

The most likely responsible party for a ransomware attack on a large retail chain is organized crime. Organized crime groups often leverage ransomware as a highly profitable method for extorting money from businesses by encrypting sensitive data and demanding payment for its release. These groups generally have the resources, skills, and operational structures to execute complex attacks and are motivated by financial gain.

They typically target organizations that can afford to pay a ransom and may even operate with a business-like approach to increase their chances of success. This makes them particularly dangerous in larger industries such as retail, where a vast amount of customer data and financial information can be held ransom.

While hacktivists might carry out cyber attacks to promote a political agenda, their goals do not align with financial extortion, which is the primary motive behind ransomware attacks. Competitors may attempt to undermine a business through various means but would be less likely resort to this method due to legal and reputational risks. Insider threats involve individuals within the organization who may misuse their access to information, but this scenario specifically suggests an external attack designed to extort payment—a hallmark of organized crime tactics.