Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS): What Every Business Needs to Know in 2025

komalghare3
1 day ago
3 min read

In 2025, ransomware attacks are no longer the work of lone cybercriminals. Instead, they are powered by a booming underground economy: Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS). Much like SaaS platforms, RaaS provides ready-to-use ransomware kits and infrastructure to anyone willing to pay — even those without technical expertise.

This model has transformed ransomware into a scalable and profitable cybercrime operation. In this blog, we explore how RaaS works, its impact on Indian businesses, and what organizations must do to protect themselves.

What Is Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS)?

RaaS is a subscription-based model where cybercriminals (known as "affiliates") rent or purchase ransomware toolkits from developers (often called "operators"). In return, the operators take a share of the ransom profits — sometimes up to 30-40%.

RaaS platforms typically offer:

Ransomware binaries and builders
Command-and-Control (C2) dashboards
Cryptocurrency payment management
Victim communication portals
Technical support (yes, really)

This model significantly lowers the barrier to entry for cybercrime, fueling the global surge in ransomware attacks.

Why RaaS Is a Growing Threat in 2025?

Several recent developments have made RaaS more dangerous than ever:

1. More Sophisticated Malware

AI-generated malware and polymorphic payloads make detection harder. Some RaaS variants now include data exfiltration before encryption, enabling double extortion.

2. Targeting SMBs and Mid-sized Enterprises

In India, we're seeing a shift: attackers are going after small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with limited security maturity. They're seen as soft targets, often with critical data and less incident response capability.

3. Affiliates Are Expanding

Threat actors are actively recruiting new affiliates via darknet forums and encrypted messaging apps. Even low-skilled attackers can now launch advanced ransomware campaigns.

How RaaS Works: A Step-by-Step Breakdown?

Affiliate buys or subscribes to RaaS toolkit- Usually via Tor or darknet markets.
Affiliate launches campaign- This might include phishing, exploiting known vulnerabilities, or brute-forcing exposed services like RDP.
Victim gets infected and files are encrypted- Often with backup systems also targeted.
Ransom note demands payment in crypto- Payment portals often use onion services for anonymity.
Payment split between affiliate and RaaS developer- Developers may offer incentives for affiliates who bring in more ransom revenue.

Notable RaaS Groups Active in 2025

Black Basta – Known for rapid lateral movement and Linux support.
LockBit 3.0 – Continues to evolve with bug bounty programs and data leak sites.
Play Ransomware – Aggressive targeting of Indian manufacturing and healthcare sectors.

CERT-In and global threat intelligence platforms have reported a 37% increase in RaaS incidents in India alone during Q1 2025.

What Can Businesses Do to Defend Against RaaS?

1. Patch and Harden Systems

Apply security updates promptly.
Disable unused remote access services like RDP.
Enforce MFA everywhere, especially for admin accounts.
Ensure Least Privilege access to users.
Block malicious attachments and links with secure email gateways (Email Filtering.

2. Segment Your Network

Minimize lateral movement by isolating critical systems.
Use firewalls and VLANs to restrict access.
Monitor for Unusual Data Transfer Activity using network traffic analysis or CASBs (Cloud Access Security Brokers).

3. Backup, Test, Repeat

Maintain offline backups.
Regularly test restoration processes.
Ensure backups are immutable.

4. Invest in Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)

Choose solutions with behavior-based ransomware detection.
Integrate EDR with SIEM/SOC for faster response.
Tools to detect & block unauthorized file transfers (DLP)

5. Educate Your Team

Phishing remains the # 1 entry vector. Regular awareness training can reduce risk.
Conduct simulated phishing campaigns.

6. Have a Ransomware Response Plan

Include legal, communication, forensics, and recovery steps.
Practice tabletop exercises.

How Microscan Communications Can Help?

At Microscan Communications, our team of cybersecurity experts offers:

Proactive VAPT assessments
Ransomware incident response planning
24x7 threat monitoring and SOC services
Phishing resilience programs

Don't wait for an attack to expose the cracks in your defenses. The RaaS threat is real — but with the right strategy, it’s one you can defend against.

Let’s Talk Security!

Reach out to our team for a free consultation or to schedule a ransomware readiness assessment: https://www.microscancommunications.com/contact-us