A MALbyte cybersecurity news blog post by H. Julian Sanchez
Imagine Adobe Creative Cloud, the popular software suite that gives users access to a variety of creative tools like Photoshop and Illustrator. Now, take that concept and apply it to the dark web—instead of paying for creative tools, you’re getting access to some of the most sophisticated ransomware available. That is Death Grip, a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) that operates like the subscription-based platforms we’re all used to, except designed for cybercriminals.
Death Grip essentially allows cybercriminals to "rent" ransomware tools to carry out attacks. For those unfamiliar, ransomware is a type of malicious software that locks you out of your computer or encrypts all your data, demanding a ransom payment to regain access. Traditionally, ransomware attacks required significant technical skill, but newer RaaS platforms like Death Grip have significantly lowered that barrier. To give you an idea, deploying a ransomware attack used to be like trying to assemble IKEA furniture without instructions—frustrating, time-consuming, and likely resulting in breaking your own stuff. But now, with Death Grip’s RaaS, it's more like taking an Uber—give it point A and point B to plant a trap, if they fall for it you now own someone’s Laptop, iPhone, Mac, or Android device. The service includes everything needed to launch an attack, from the software itself to detailed instructions and even customer support, just like creative software provides tutorials and help for its users.
(Skip if you are familiar with dark-web access)
The dark web is portrayed as a difficult-to-access part of the internet, but in reality, it’s pretty easy to reach using the Tor (The Onion Router) browser that’s easily available on the clear net. Tor is a free web browser that allows users to access the internet anonymously and also displays both the clear and dark web by listing normal websites with .COM, .ORG, .NET, etc., but also lists other websites that normal browsers like Chrome and Firefox will not, such as .ONION websites that are designed for anonymity. The Tor browser helps users with anonymity by re-routing their internet traffic through a series of volunteer-operated servers (special computers dedicated to serving data and services across the internet), thus anonymizing their identity and location. This process, known as "onion routing," applies layers of encryption over your data at each stop, making it difficult to trace. Despite its reputation, Tor is not exclusively used by criminals with malicious intent; it's used by plenty of people who value their privacy and don't want to worry about being tracked at every step of shopping for a new laptop online.
A Threat to Businesses and Individuals
Much like how Adobe’s tools are used by individuals and large companies alike, Death Grip doesn’t discriminate based on the size of its targets. Small to medium-sized businesses and unaware individuals are especially vulnerable, as they often lack the security knowledge and defenses of larger corporations. A ransomware attack can be catastrophic for these businesses and people, leading to major financial losses and reputational damage. 60% of small businesses that fall victim to a cyber attack end up closing down within six months.
The rise of Death Grip is a clear reminder to businesses and individuals that the cybersecurity landscape is evolving rapidly.
Strengthening Security Practices
As RaaS platforms and other threats become more prevalent, businesses must invest in stronger security practices, and individuals must be more mindful of their online activities. This should include regular data backups, antivirus software, and primarily educating yourself and employees to recognize various social engineering attacks (tactics that manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information or performing actions that compromise security).
Advisory for Newcomers to Cybersecurity
For those thinking about or studying cybersecurity, the rise of RaaS platforms like Death Grip and other threats alike presents both a challenge and an opportunity. New threats highlight the growing need for skilled cybersecurity professionals to protect businesses and individuals from these evolving threats. Security professionals must continuously educate themselves to stay prepared with the ability to defend against these threats. RaaS platforms like Death Grip show how quickly the threat landscape can change, making ongoing education and adaptation essential.
Explore the dark web’s latest threat, Death Grip Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS), which allows cybercriminals to easily rent and deploy powerful ransomware tools. Learn how Death Grip operates, its implications for businesses and individuals, and why it’s a game-changer in the evolving cybersecurity landscape. With step-by-step access details and a deeper look into how RaaS platforms like Death Grip are changing cyber threats, this post is essential reading for cybersecurity professionals and newcomers alike.