Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) is a business model in which a ransomware program is sold as a service.
Typically, a hacker or a group of hackers creates a RaaS and sells it to individuals or companies that use it to attack various targets. The attackers encrypt the victims’ data and then demand a ransom in exchange for decrypting it. At the same time, the creators of the cryptographer virus receive part of the ransom, and the hackers receive the rest. This allows creators to focus on the development and improvement of ransomware, and their customers to illegally earn money from conducting attacks without having to invest in development.
Ransomware-as-a-Service is a profitable business for cybercriminals because it provides a low—risk and inexpensive way to generate income. Attackers usually require payment in cryptocurrencies, for example, in bitcoins, which makes it difficult to track their funds and identify them. Victims of cryptographic attacks often face a difficult decision, since paying a ransom does not guarantee that the attacker will actually restore access to encrypted data. In some cases, the attackers disappear after receiving the payment, leaving the data encrypted.
To protect against Ransomware-as-a-Service attacks, it is important to regularly back up important data and keep software and systems up to date. It is also important to be careful when opening email attachments or clicking on links from unknown sources.