Cyber Gangs: Ransomware operators and where to find them

Ransomware is the buzzword every time businesses discuss cyberthreats they are likely to face in 2021. To help companies understand how the ransomware ecosystem operates and how to fight it, the latest report by IT security firm Kaspersky researchers dug into darknet forums, took a deep look at REvil and Babuk gangs and beyond and debunked some of the myths about ransomware.

Like any industry, the ransomware ecosystem comprises many players that take on various roles. Contrary to the belief that ransomware gangs are actually gangs—tight, have been through it all together, Godfather-style groups, the reality is more akin to the world of Guy Ritchie’s The Gentlemen, with a significant number of different actors—developers, botmasters, access sellers, ransomware operators—involved in most attacks, supplying services to each other through dark web marketplaces.