{"id":22636,"date":"2022-03-04T08:30:10","date_gmt":"2022-03-04T08:30:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/easydmarc.com\/blog\/?p=22636"},"modified":"2026-03-13T09:55:39","modified_gmt":"2026-03-13T09:55:39","slug":"what-is-ransomware-as-a-service-raas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/easydmarc.com\/blog\/what-is-ransomware-as-a-service-raas\/","title":{"rendered":"What is Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS)?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Ransomware is one of the most common types of malware among the various kinds worldwide. It blocks a user\u2019s access to their data, demanding a ransom to restore access. Individual or business, ransomware targets everyone.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Nevertheless, <\/span>Sophos research<\/span><\/a> indicates that only one in 10 companies get their data back after paying the ransom.<\/span><\/p>\n

Despite being relatively new in the cyberattack industry, ransomware is on a steep upward trend, and its scope of spread is extending.<\/span><\/p>\n

If it\u2019s your first time hearing about ransomware, read our <\/span>complete guide<\/span><\/a> to learn more. In the meantime, this article covers <\/span>ransomware as a service (RaaS) <\/b>and its major impact on businesses.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What is RaaS?<\/b><\/h2>\n

RaaS isn\u2019t merely another cyberattack. It’s an evolved model that has turned into a service as well. But <\/span>what is Ransomware-as-a-Service<\/b>, precisely?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

RaaS (Ransomware-as-a-Service) <\/b>is a subscription-based model that enables inexperienced cybercriminals to use pre-designed malware tools to implement ransomware attacks. Cyberattackers usually receive high dividends from any successful ransom payment.<\/span><\/p>\n

In some ways, RaaS is similar to SaaS (Software-as-a-Service). Similar to SaaS, you don\u2019t need any specific skills to use RaaS. That\u2019s why it\u2019s now way easier for cybercriminals to execute sophisticated attacks using RaaS solutions.<\/span><\/p>\n

How Does Ransomware-as-a-Service Work?<\/b><\/h2>\n

Ransomware tools are generally developed by seasoned experts who later sell them to affiliates on secure <\/span>dark web<\/span><\/a> platforms.<\/span><\/p>\n

After development, the ransomware tool is modified to a multi-end user infrastructure. Cyberattackers must get permission to use it. The signup is commonly available with a one-time fee, monthly subscription, or commission.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Once the cyberactor accesses the software, they\u2019re provided with a step-by-step guide on how to carry out a ransomware attack. It\u2019s also possible for cybercriminals to follow the pace of the ransomware infection attempts with a specific dashboard.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

New cyberactor signups are given a custom exploit code to implement their ransomware attacks. These codes are later submitted to the website hosting so that RaaS users can launch their attacks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When Did Ransomware-as-a-Service Start?<\/b><\/h2>\n

While Ransomware is nothing new, the first RaaS model, Ransom32, was compatible with various operating systems. Because it was developed in JavaScript, HTML, and CSS, it can infect Linux and MacOS, too.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ransom32 encrypts client-side files with few resources. Any hacker can register on Tor using a Bitcoin address, then configure and download their own version of Ransom32. Developers typically take 25% of a ransom payment and direct the remaining amount to the ransomware users.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Is RaaS a Crime?<\/b><\/h3>\n

Yes, Ransomware-as-a-Service, as well as ransomware itself, are illegal almost everywhere across the globe. As it\u2019s not only about data capturing, but also demanding ransom. Hackers commonly require the victims to pay it with Bitcoin, which is untraceable.<\/span><\/p>\n

In 2014, The United States Internal Revenue Service <\/span>declared<\/span><\/a> Bitcoin to be a property, not a currency; so its use is taxable. Accordingly, anyone demanding Bitcoin ransoms may be prosecuted for violating financial services laws and regulations.<\/span><\/p>\n

Still, ransomware attacks haven\u2019t been prosecuted because of the innate untraceable nature of the payment method. On the other hand, <\/span>U.S. law enforcement officials encourage ransomware victims to report the attacks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As mentioned in the recent research by the <\/span>Congressional Research Service<\/span><\/a>, the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA), can be used to criminalize ransomware attacks.<\/span><\/p>\n

Is RaaS Efficient?<\/b><\/h3>\n

Ransomware-as-a-Service is highly efficient as it simplifies the process of earning money by spreading malware. The affiliate programs<\/a> that underlie RaaS make it more appealing to hackers. Developers use the dark web to sell or lease malware.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Group-IB <\/span>research<\/span><\/a> shows that around \u2154 of ransomware attacks in 2020 were executed using the RaaS model. People are excited to use RaaS as it doesn\u2019t usually require specific skills. The idea of earning money with ready-to-use software is an effective motivator.<\/span><\/p>\n

The price of ransom is also increasing year by year\u2024 The average <\/span>ransom demand<\/span><\/a> in 2021 was $50m compared to $847,000 in 2020.<\/span><\/p>\n

Many businesses underestimate the power of ransomware attacks and miss out on the installation of the<\/span> latest software security patches<\/span><\/a>. Any organization must consider RaaS as a significant threat to their data.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ransomware-as-a-Service Examples<\/b><\/h3>\n

With many <\/span>Ransomware-as-a-Service examples<\/b> out there, we\u2019ve highlighted two common types below:<\/span><\/p>\n