Ransomware as a Service
RaaS stands for ‘Ransomware as a Service’ and put simply is a subscription-based software and business model used by criminals. Developers create and sell ransomware packages on the dark web, where criminals purchase ready to use in their next attack. The developers can take a cut of the profits earned by the criminals from ransomware attacks. Raas makes ransomware a more readily available option to hackers with limited technical knowledge.
Included in a Ransomware As A Service kit might be user reviews, forums, 24hr support, offers and other features similar to those used by legal SaaS (‘Software as a Service’) companies.
Prices start from $40 per month to thousands of dollars – but this is a small price to pay upfront for the potential millions you can gain from operating the ransomware successfully. Some even have a money back guarantee offer if you are unsatisfied with the product.
It is a demonstration of how sophisticated this criminal eco system is becoming and why business needs to work hard to stay one step ahead.