Can ransomware attacks succeed without leaking data?

Ransomware attacks can succeed without necessarily exposing or leaking sensitive data. In a typical ransomware attack, the goal is to encrypt the victim’s data or lock them out of their system entirely until a ransom is paid. The success of the attack lies in the cybercriminal’s ability to infiltrate the victim’s system, encrypt their files, and demand payment in exchange for restoring access. While some ransomware variants also involve data theft as an additional threat to pressure victims to pay, the primary objective is often to disrupt operations and extort money rather than expose confidential information.