Description: Ransomware as a Service (RaaS) is an emerging business model in the realm of cybercrime, where ransomware developers offer their tools and services to other criminals in exchange for a share of the profits obtained. This approach allows individuals without advanced technical skills to carry out ransomware attacks, facilitating the proliferation of this type of malware. RaaS operates similarly to software as a service (SaaS), where users can access online platforms to customize and launch attacks. The main features of RaaS include ease of use, availability of technical support, and the ability to customize the malware to target different objectives. This model has contributed to the democratization of cybercrime, allowing a greater number of malicious actors to engage in criminal activities, which in turn has increased the frequency and sophistication of ransomware attacks worldwide. The relevance of RaaS lies in its ability to transform the cybersecurity landscape, forcing organizations to invest more in defense and incident response measures, as well as in educating their employees about cyber threats.
History: The concept of ‘Ransomware as a Service’ began to take shape in the mid-2010s when cybercriminal groups started offering their ransomware tools to other criminals through online forums and dark web markets. One of the first notable examples was the ‘Cryptolocker’ ransomware, which, although not a service itself, laid the groundwork for the commercialization of ransomware. Over time, platforms like ‘GozNym’ and ‘Sodinokibi’ began to offer complete services, allowing users to customize attacks and receive technical support. This model has rapidly evolved, becoming one of the main threats in the field of cybersecurity.
Uses: Ransomware as a Service is primarily used to carry out extortion attacks, where criminals encrypt victims’ data and demand a ransom for its release. This model allows attackers to customize their campaigns, targeting specific entities such as businesses, government institutions, or individuals. Additionally, some RaaS groups offer supplementary services, such as creating websites for ransom payments and tools for managing negotiations with victims. This has enabled even those without technical experience to effectively engage in criminal activities.
Examples: A notable case of Ransomware as a Service is the ‘REvil’ group, which has been responsible for numerous attacks on large enterprises, demanding multimillion-dollar ransoms. Another example is the ‘DarkSide’ ransomware, which attacked Colonial Pipeline in 2021, causing a fuel supply crisis in the United States. These examples illustrate how the RaaS model has enabled cybercriminal groups to operate more efficiently and with a significant impact on the economy and public safety.
