Page 237 - Cyber Defense eMagazine Annual RSA Edition for 2024
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The Rise of Ransomware 2.0
Mitigating the Evolving Cyber Threats with Microsoft Sentinel
By Susmitha Tammineedi, Research Analyst in Marketing at Cloud4C
Ransomware – what commenced as a relatively simple cybercriminal tactic to extort ransom payments
by encrypting data, has transformed into a far more insidious threat. Modern ransomware has evolved
into a multi-pronged attack setup, designed to extort maximum wealth and disrupt operations.
Cybercriminals now, don't just stop at encrypting files - they deploy advanced tactics like data theft,
launching additional malware payloads causing an even greater damage. This dangerous escalation,
dubbed a new and sophisticated breed of cyberthreat - Ransomware 2.0.
Beyond Encryption: Emerging Trends In Ransomware 2.0
Ransomware as a service: Arguably the most disturbing trend is the rise of Ransomware-as-a-Service
(RaaS). It is projected to reach over 500 distinct exploit kits available for cybercriminals to purchase and
deploy. This destructive development has democratized access to potent attack capabilities and has
equipped even novice cybercriminals with advanced tools. Combined with automated exploit tools and
increasing blockchain-enabled anonymity, ransomware groups are proliferating and impacting
organizations across all industry verticals.
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