Ransomware as a service (RaaS) is a major threat to all cybersecurity data and
systems. Similar to Software-as-a-Service, RaaS provides easy
subscription-based access to ransomware to those with little-to-no programming
expertise.
With the popularity of RaaS growing, companies and organizations of all
shapes and sizes should be well-versed in reducing the chances they’ll be
victimized by a RaaS attack. We’ll cover what RaaS is, how the business
model and technology works, and how to prevent attacks.
What is Ransomware?
Ransomware is a special type of virus or malware primarily designed to
disable critical systems or prevent sensitive data access unless financial
remuneration is made. For example, a ransomware attack on a hospital might
lock out doctors or administrators from accessing patient records they need
on a continual basis. The attacker might then send out a system-wide message
demanding payment in order to restore access.
On a high level, ransomware uses cryptography to encrypt and decrypt files.
The malware encrypts access to systems or files, only granting a special
private key when a ransom is collected. In short, ransomware keeps
organizations from operating unless the attacker is sent payment. Hackers
can also encrypt sensitive or private information, threatening to release it
unless compensated.
What is Ransomware as a Service (RaaS)?
RaaS is a subscription-based model that enables users, also known as
affiliates, to use ransomware tools to execute attacks. As opposed to normal
ransomware, RaaS is a provider of out-of-the-box ransomware tools to
subscribers who pay to be an affiliate of the program. Stemming from
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), RaaS affiliates are paying for the ongoing use
of malicious software.
Some affiliates pay less than $100 per month while others
pay upwards of $1,000. Regardless of the subscription cost, affiliates earn a percentage of each
successful ransom payment following an attack. RaaS enables malicious
attacks with lucrative rewards to be collected effortlessly, even by users
with no prior knowledge or experience in the field.
How does Ransomware-as-a-Service Work?
|
| Credit image: varonis |
Two parties work together to execute a successful RaaS attack: Developers
and Affiliates. Developers are responsible for creating a specific code
within the ransomware which is then sold to an affiliate. Developers provide
the ransomware code along with instructions on how to launch the attack.
RaaS is user-friendly and requires minimal technical expertise. Any
individual with access to the dark web can log into the portal, become an
affiliate, and initiate attacks at the click of a button.
To get started, affiliates select the type of malware they wish to spread
and pay with some form of cryptocurrency, typically Bitcoin. Once the attack
is successful and ransom money is received, the profits are split between
the developer and the affiliate. How the money is divided is dependent upon
the type of revenue model.
The RaaS Revenue Models
- Monthly Subscription. Users pay a flat fee on a monthly basis and earn a small percentage of each successful ransom.
- Affiliate Programs A small percent of profits go to the RaaS operator with the goal of running a more efficient service and increasing profits.
- One-time License Fee. As the name of the model indicates, users pay a one-time fee with no profit sharing. Affiliates then have access in perpetuity.
- Pure Profit Sharing. Profits are divided among users and operators with pre-determined percentages upon the license purchase.
How to Prevent Raas Attacks
Advances in technology have made it easier for code developers and affiliates
to infiltrate systems and extract lucrative ransoms from organizations.
Ransomware attacks have increased by 33 percent since 2019 with affiliates
making up to 80 percent from each payment. To prevent yourself from becoming
one of these statistics, here are four must-know tips to prevent RaaS attacks,
by
varonis.
1. Backup Data Consistently
Confidential and private data is typically the main target of a RaaS attack.
Hackers compromise your systems or data then threaten to steal or release it
if the ransom isn’t met. By backing up data, RaaS attackers won’t have the
same leverage as they would if they’re in sole possession. So don’t solely
rely on cloud storage, backup your data on external hard drives as a
preventative measure against RaaS.
2. Keep Software Updated
Another efficient way to prevent RaaS attacks is to keep your system
software up to date. This includes your anti-virus measures. Systems using
older versions are an obvious weakness that cyber-criminals are keen to
exploit. Software updates also increase network security by patching
vulnerabilities and ensuring bug fixes. Also, maintain a rigorous patch
program to protect from both known vulnerabilities and potential new RaaS
technologies.
3. Ongoing Employee Training
RaaS attackers often trick victims with phishing emails that contain
malicious links and attachments. If the message is from an unknown sender or
it raises skepticism, personnel should already know to avoid it immediately.
Train users on how to identify, quarantine, and report malicious messages to
avoid unnecessary damage. Conduct regular and updated training on common
RaaS tactics like phishing and social engineering.
4. Proactive Detection & Protection
In addition to keeping your cybersecurity software updated, you’ll want to
employ technology that focuses on endpoint protection and threat detection.
You’ll want your defenses running on an ongoing, 24/7 basis to protect
against RaaS at all times. There are many programs to consider that
implement a variety of smart tools to detect and remove ransomware threats.
The Future of RaaS
Moving forward, RaaS attacks are only going to increase in frequency and
popularity amongst cybercriminals. One recent survey found that over 60
percent of all cyberattacks in the past 18 months were RaaS in nature. The
ease of use -- and the fact that no technical experience is required -- is
only broadening the appeal of RaaS.
We can also expect an uptick in RaaS attacks focusing on critical
infrastructure. This includes healthcare, government, transportation, and
energy. As supply chain difficulties persist through 2022, hackers see these
key sectors and institutions as more vulnerable than ever, putting things
like hospitals and power plants in the crosshairs of RaaS attackers.
RaaS FAQs
What’s the definition of RaaS?
Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) is a malicious, subscription-based business
model where ransomware operators lease out malware to affiliates via the
dark web. RaaS operators usually receive a percentage of ransom payments
gained during RaaS campaigns. It’s extremely similar to the legal
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) business model.
How do governments view the legality of RaaS?
RaaS is viewed as an illegal enterprise by most jurisdictions. Being
involved in a ransomware attack in any part of a campaign is entirely
illegal. This includes buying ransomware kits on the dark web, breaching a
corporate network, stealing, encrypting, and downloading system files, and
extorting cryptocurrency from victims.
How fast is RaaS spreading amongst hackers?
Quickly Some malware developers create their own attack playbooks and make
them available to affiliates. Therefore, various attack groups end up
implementing similar attacks. The more that specialist ransomware
programmers outsource their malicious code and infrastructure to third-party
affiliates, the more the size and scope of ransomware delivery methods will
grow.
?){kind=link}