WannaCry Ransomware Attack: Global Impact and Security Lessons

In May 2017, the world witnessed one of the most destructive cyber incidents in history: the WannaCry ransomware attack. Within just a few days, the malware infected over 230,000 computers across 150 countries, crippling businesses, hospitals, and government agencies.

The attack didn’t just highlight the destructive potential of ransomware—it exposed weaknesses in global cybersecurity practices. For security professionals, business leaders, and policymakers, WannaCry became a turning point in how organizations approach digital risk.

What Was the WannaCry Ransomware Attack?

Origin and Timeline of the Attack

The WannaCry ransomware campaign began on May 12, 2017. Within hours, it spread worldwide, locking users out of their systems and demanding Bitcoin payments.

The Exploit: EternalBlue and SMB Vulnerability

The malware exploited a Windows SMB (Server Message Block) vulnerability, using a leaked NSA cyber tool known as EternalBlue. Despite Microsoft releasing a patch weeks earlier, thousands of unpatched systems remained exposed ...