In the United Kingdom, the National Health Service (NHS) was particularly hard-hit, with up to 70,000 devices affected, including essential equipment like MRI scanners, blood storage refrigerators, and operating theatre systems. Hospitals faced massive disruptions, with some having to turn away patients due to compromised systems. Across the globe, approximately 200,000 computers in over 150 countries fell victim to the attack, affecting businesses, governments, and organizations worldwide. This widespread reach is a clear indication that cybersecurity is no longer a mere technical issue but a critical concern for every organization, sector, and individual. 

The economic consequences of the WannaCry attack were staggering. With estimated global losses reaching up to US$4 billion, it is clear that the financial impact of a single cyberattack can be profound. This attack served as a wake-up call, showing that a lack of adequate cybersecurity measures can lead to losses that extend far beyond financial damages—affecting reputation, operational capabilities, and even public health and safety. 

WannaCry remains a chilling reminder of how vulnerable our digital infrastructure can be. In an era where digital transformation is rapidly changing industries, cybersecurity must be a top priority for any organization that relies on technology. Cybersecurity safeguards are no longer just about protecting data; they are crucial for maintaining operational stability, customer trust, and long-term sustainability. Businesses and governments alike need to invest in preventative measures, including regular system updates, employee training on phishing scams, and layered security protocols that can help detect and block potential attacks. 

For countries like Indonesia, the recent attacks on the Indonesia National Database (PDN) have provided similarly valuable lessons on how ransomware attacks can disrupt essential services. 

The WannaCry attack underscored the importance of having a proactive approach to cybersecurity. Organizations should adopt a mindset that cybersecurity is not a one-time investment but an ongoing commitment to staying ahead of threats. Whether it’s regular software updates, comprehensive cybersecurity audits, or training employees on the latest security practices, every measure counts when it comes to protecting against cyber threats. 

As we reflect on the WannaCry incident, it’s essential to recognize that while we may not be able to stop every cyber threat, robust cybersecurity can significantly mitigate risks. In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity is not merely a defensive measure—it’s a fundamental requirement for resilience in the face of growing cyber threats. The WannaCry attack serves as a powerful reminder of what’s at stake and the importance of taking cybersecurity seriously.