Ransomware as-a-Service is making cyber crime all too easy. Criminals no longer need to build this software, since they can rent it for a small cost. In return, they pay the developers a cut, a percentage of the ransom.
Ransomware is computer software that criminals maliciously installed on devices such as computers and cellphones. The software typically enters through a Trojan horse designed as a legitimate file. The ransomware then takes over the user’s device or key components by encrypting it, rendering it useless. Only a cryptography key can decrypt the files, and the criminals charge a steep price for it. Businesses usually get a strict deadline to pay, or they lose the ability to use their software forever. Ransomware criminals extort millions and millions of dollars from businesses worldwide.
What is RaaS?
Ransomware as a service lets a cyber criminal rent the ransomware’s software instead of building it. The criminal attacks a business’s site, and when the victim pays, the developer keeps 5 to 25 percent. The balance of ransom, known as a “script kiddie” goes to the cyber criminal who employed the attack.
In order to use the ransomware creator’s malware, the individual or entity behind the infection pays a small upfront fee, often around $39. Many creators let the criminal use the ransomware for free, since the kickback is the creator’s real incentive. With that purchase, the attacker gets hacking tools plus training on how to use the ransomware and who to target.
The cyber criminal typically accesses the ransomware or connects with its creator on what people call the dark web. In fact, some ransomware developers even promote their products boldly on YouTube. Ransomware victims pay the ransom through the use of Bitcoins.
How to respond to RaaS
The short-term, easy way to respond to ransomware attacks is to pay the ransom. Paying does not stop the criminal from attacking again. The only upside is that the victim now knows to make security a top priority. Also, some other ways businesses can respond are:
- Using guaranteed protection software. Some companies guarantee that if their software fails to stop a RaaS attack, they will pay the victim a set amount.
- Make backups. Take continual backups, so your team can reinstall data and software fast and avoid downtime if an attack hits.
- Use a cloud-based service. In addition, cloud-based services aim to do two things: block ransomware attacks with strong defenses and get replacement systems running fast.
- Educate. Teach everyone on your team to recognize a ransomware attack, including the danger of opening attachments from an unknown source. Email attachments are the most common way ransomware attacks occur.
- Be alert to insider attacks. Disgruntled employees or workers inside the company are some of the most likely RaaS users. They rarely have time to build malicious software themselves, but they know exactly how the company’s systems work. That knowledge makes it easier for a Trojan horse to slip in.
Learn how to protect your IT systems by calling experienced technology consultants today
Ransomware attacks can ruin a company. Sadly, RaaS makes extortionist attacks almost seem like child’s play, so the best defense is to avoid the attacks in the first place. As a result, our data center professionals keep current with the malicious ways criminals try to attack businesses. We strive to keep ahead of the criminals by preparing the most up-to-date defenses.
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