Table of contents
- Ransomware as a service: what it is and how it works
- Why ransomware as a service is a growing threat
- Cyberattacks enabled by ransomware as a service
- How ransomware as a service operators generate income
- Preventing ransomware as a service attacks
In recent years, cyberattacks using ransomware as a service (RaaS) have become one of the most concerning phenomena in cyber security.
Among the most notable recent cases was the attack on Colonial Pipeline, a U.S. energy infrastructure company. Here, a group of threat actors used malware obtained from RaaS operators to cripple the company’s operations and demand a multimillion-dollar ransom.
Similar phenomena have become common worldwide thanks to the spread of the ransomware as a service business model, making ransomware increasingly accessible, even to criminals with limited technical skills.
Let’s examine what ransomware as a service is, how it works, and the main security threats it poses.
Ransomware as a service: what it is and how it works
Ransomware as a service is a business model based on the software-as-a-service (SaaS) concept, where malware developers offer their ransomware for lease.
Similar to legitimate SaaS services, where a license is paid to use software like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, RaaS operators rent out their malware to cybercriminals in exchange for a share of the ransom profits.
The structure of RaaS ransomware as a service is designed to simplify the management and deployment of cyberattacks for users with minimal technical expertise.
RaaS operators handle the technical aspects, offering an infrastructure that includes creating and updating ransomware variants, managing payments, and supporting affiliates.
This system, often organized through affiliate programs, allows threat actors to focus solely on spreading malware without needing to create or maintain it.
Why ransomware as a service is a growing threat
The ransomwar as a service model is an increasing threat for several reasons. First, it makes ransomware extremely accessible; anyone can become an affiliate, even without specific technical skills.
In fact, entering this market is as easy as accessing specific dark web channels, where RaaS operators offer their service for a subscription fee or as part of a commission-based collaboration.
Additionally, ransomware offered via RaaS is typically customizable, allowing affiliates to select specific types of ransomware or adapt variants to target specific victims.
These ransomware variants can target both large companies and individual users, with attacks focused on sectors such as healthcare, finance, and government, making ransomware attacks highly flexible and difficult to predict.
Cyberattacks enabled by ransomware as a service
Attacks using ransomware as a service are becoming increasingly sophisticated. One common trend is the “double attack”: in addition to encrypting files, attackers threaten to release sensitive data if the ransom isn’t paid.
This double extortion increases pressure on victims, making them more likely to pay to prevent the public release of confidential information.
Another aspect to consider is the use of automated tools by RaaS operators. Many RaaS services include features like customized phishing tools, exploit kits, and even monitoring dashboards that allow cybercriminals to track the effectiveness of their cyberattack and related ransom demands in real time.
How ransomware as a service operators generate income
RaaS operators earn substantial profits through various revenue models. Some require a fixed fee, while others prefer a percentage of the ransom collected, making this model highly scalable.
This approach allows ransomware creators to reduce exposure risks and ensure a steady income stream, leaving malware distribution to affiliates.
Many well-known ransomware as a service platforms follow a partnership model, where the affiliate earns a percentage of ransoms and pays a commission to the RaaS operator.
Some well-known RaaS examples include DarkSide, REvil, and Conti, groups that have attacked critical infrastructure, multinational companies, and even hospitals, generating substantial profits through this customizable malware.
Preventing ransomware as a service attacks
Preventing ransomware as a service (RaaS) attacks is complex but essential to protect organizations from breaches that can cause severe damage.
The versatile nature of RaaS, with ransomware variants that can be customized, makes prevention a critical goal. Below are the main strategies for mitigating risk and enhancing cyber security for businesses and users.
Continuous staff training
Human behavior is one of the main attack vectors for threat actors who use RaaS.
Often, attacks start with phishing or spear-phishing techniques designed to trick employees into opening malicious links or files. For this reason, staff training is a primary defense layer.
An effective training strategy should:
- Educate employees to identify suspicious emails, deceptive links, and risky attachments.
- Raise awareness of social engineering tactics used to deceive victims into taking unwise actions.
- Regularly simulate phishing attacks to test staff responsiveness and identify potential weaknesses.
Regular courses and practical simulations help employees stay informed on the latest attack techniques, raising general awareness and reducing the risk of an attack compromising company security.
Implementing advanced security technologies
Technology plays a key role in protecting against ransomware attacks. Advanced tools such as artificial intelligence (AI) and behavioral analysis can detect and block suspicious activity before a ransomware attack reaches its goals.
The most effective technologies include:
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
Allows monitoring and protection of company devices, detecting unusual behaviors that may indicate an ongoing infection.
- Threat intelligence
Systems that collect real-time data on global attacks, helping companies recognize new threat vectors.
- Advanced firewalls and network segmentation
Separating sensitive data from other areas of the network is a preventative measure that limits the scope of an attack in case of infection.
- AI-based behavioral analysis
Can detect unusual activities, such as file encryption attempts, automatically isolating the threat.
Adopting regular and secure backups
Backups are a fundamental defense against ransomware. The main goal of a RaaS-based attack is to block sensitive data and demand a ransom to unlock it.
However, if a company maintains regular backups accessible only offline or through secure cloud storage, it can avoid paying a ransom.
To maximize the security of backups:
- Back up critical data regularly and store it on media disconnected from the network.
- Implement the 3-2-1 rule (three copies of data in two different formats, with one stored offsite) to ensure data is always available.
- Protect backups with limited access and encryption, to prevent threat actors from compromising backup copies.
Consistent system updates
Software vulnerabilities are among the main entry points for ransomware as a service. Ransomware developers often exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated systems, targeting weaker victims.
To protect against this, it is crucial to apply patches and updates as soon as they become available.
Some measures to consider include:
- Regularly monitor security updates released by software providers and apply them promptly.
- Automate update processes to reduce the chance of leaving a vulnerability unaddressed for too long.
- Manage user privileges so only authorized personnel can install software, reducing risks associated with uncertified or outdated software.
Strict access controls and credential management
Unauthorized access is one of the primary causes of malware infection. RaaS operators and their affiliates may use credential theft techniques to penetrate company networks. Having strict access controls can limit access to sensitive data and reduce the infection risk.
Some best practices include:
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Adds an additional layer of protection even if access credentials are stolen.
- Rotate passwords frequently
Use secure password managers to avoid weak or reused credentials.
- Limit access privileges
Only to staff who actually need access to certain resources.
Example:
Access to sensitive data should be restricted to authorized company personnel only.
Continuous monitoring and rapid incident response
Monitoring network activity allows quick identification of potential anomalies that could indicate the presence of malware. Continuous monitoring becomes essential, especially with the growing spread of RaaS ransomware as a service.
An effective monitoring system should:
- Monitor network activity and report suspicious behavior in real-time.
- Include an incident response plan to react immediately in case of infection or attempted attack.
- Implement log management solutions to analyze data and identify potential threats based on unusual behavior.
Frequently asked questions
- What is ransomware as a service?
It’s a model allowing criminals to rent ransomware for cyberattacks. - How does ransomware as a service work?
RaaS operators provide the malware, affiliates distribute it, and they share the ransom. - Why is ransomware as a service dangerous?
It makes ransomware use easy, even for those with minimal technical skills. - Which sectors are most affected by ransomware?
Healthcare, finance, and critical infrastructure are among the most targeted. - How can ransomware attacks be avoided?
Using updated software, making backups, and training staff reduces the risk. - Do ransomware attacks only target large companies?
No, they can also affect small businesses and individual users. - Is it effective to pay a ransom to recover data?
Not always, and paying encourages further attacks. - What is a RaaS operator?
They are individuals who develop malware and manage the service for affiliates. - What are the most common ransomware variants?
DarkSide, REvil, and Conti are among the most well-known. - How is ransomware as a service funded?
Through ransom commissions or subscription fees from cybercriminals.
