Ransomware Types

Ransomware has become a major threat to both individuals and businesses in the UK. With cybercriminals constantly evolving their tactics, understanding the different types of ransomware is crucial for safeguarding your data. From encrypting your files to locking you out of your system, these malicious attacks can cause significant disruption and financial loss.

Crypto ransomware remains the most common type, encrypting your files and demanding a ransom for their release. But that's not all! Newer forms like Locker ransomware, Scareware, Leakware, and Ransomware as a Service (RaaS) have emerged, each posing unique challenges. These attacks often exploit user errors, such as falling for phishing scams or installing software from untrusted sources.

Knowing the various types of ransomware and their attack vectors-like email attachments, browser pop-ups, and instant messages-can help you take proactive steps to protect your digital assets. Stay informed and stay safe.

Most Common Types of Ransomware

Understanding the different types of ransomware helps you better protect your data. Each ransomware variant employs unique methods to attack, so knowing these could save your vital information.

Crypto Ransomware

Crypto ransomware is a type of ransomware that encrypts files and data within a system using strong encryption algorithms like RSA and AES, rendering them inaccessible without a decryption key. Attackers demand a ransom payment, usually in cryptocurrency, in exchange for the key. Failing to pay by the deadline may result in increased ransom demands or permanent data loss.

Crypto ransomware attacks have increased significantly in recent years, with notable examples including:

• CryptoLocker
• CryptoWall
• WannaCry
• Petya/NotPetya
• Ryuk
• Cerber
• Jigsaw
• GandCrab
• Sodinokibi/REvil
• Maze

These attacks can lead to financial losses, operational disruptions, and reputational harm.

To prevent falling victim to crypto ransomware, it's crucial to keep systems updated, use reputable antivirus software, regularly back up data, and follow safe browsing and email practices.

For more in-depth information on crypto ransomware, including its impact and prevention strategies, visit our comprehensive crypto ransomware guide.

Locker Ransomware

Locker ransomware is a type of malware that blocks access to a device or its data, preventing users from using their systems. Unlike crypto ransomware, locker ransomware generally does not encrypt files; instead, it locks the screen or disables input devices like the mouse and keyboard.

When infected, the ransomware displays a message demanding payment, often using scare tactics such as claiming to be from law enforcement or threatening to delete files. The ransom note provides instructions for paying, typically in cryptocurrency.

Locker ransomware primarily targets Windows operating systems, and removing it can range from simple to nearly impossible, depending on the variant. Well-known examples:

• GoldenEye
• Winlock
• Satana
• VenusLocker
• FileCoder
• Reveton

While locker ransomware can cause significant disruption, it is generally considered less destructive than crypto ransomware since it does not damage the actual files and data on the infected device.

For more information on locker ransomware, its impact, and prevention strategies, visit our dedicated locker ransomware guide.

Scareware

Scareware is a malicious tactic used by cybercriminals to manipulate and frighten users into downloading malware or buying potentially harmful software . It often appears as sudden pop-up windows or alerts claiming that the user's device has been infected with viruses, urging them to click a link or button to download fake antivirus software or pay for fraudulent services.

These fake antivirus programs are usually either useless bloatware or malware designed to steal personal data. Scareware imitates the appearance of legitimate antivirus warnings, using counterfeit progress bars, urgent all-caps text, and flashing graphics to create a sense of panic.

Scareware can also be spread via spam emails with malicious links or phone calls from scammers impersonating tech support. The goal is always to scare the victim into compromising their own security. Well known scareware strains:

• SpySheriff
• Regclean Pro
• AdvancedSystemCare
• WinAntivirus
• Windows Antivirus Helper

To avoid falling victim to scareware, be cautious of unexpected pop-ups, emails, or calls claiming your device is infected. Keep your software updated, use pop-up blockers, and be wary of unsolicited tech support offers.

For more information on scareware, its tactics, and prevention strategies, visit our dedicated scareware guide.

Leakware

Leakware, also known as doxware or extortionware, is a type of ransomware that steals sensitive information from a victim's computer and threatens to release it publicly unless a ransom is paid. Unlike traditional ransomware that encrypts files and demands payment for the decryption key, leakware focuses on the theft and exposure of private data to pressure victims into complying with the attacker's demands.

Typically targeting organizations handling confidential data, such as banks, government agencies, and healthcare providers, leakware infiltrates the victim's system, searches for valuable information, and threatens to leak or sell this data if the ransom isn't paid.

The dangers of leakware include:

1. Sensitive information exposure can lead to:
   • Identity theft
   • Financial fraud
   • Reputational harm
2. Privacy violations through the misuse of leaked personal data
3. Legal and regulatory consequences for organizations that fail to protect their systems
4. Financial losses stemming from:
   • Incident response
   • Investigations
   • Legal actions
   • Loss of business

Well known leakware attacks include:

• Maze
• DoppelPaymer
• Nemty
• Clop
• Sekhmet

To protect against leakware, implement employee cybersecurity training, email filtering, antivirus software, regular data backups, and an incident response plan. Vigilance in avoiding suspicious emails and links is also critical to prevent leakware infections, which commonly spread via phishing attacks.

For more information on leakware, its risks, and prevention strategies, visit our dedicated leakware guide.

Ransomware as a Service (RaaS)

Ransomware as a Service (RaaS) is a subscription-based business model that enables affiliates with little technical skill to launch ransomware attacks using pre-developed tools. The ransomware author makes the malware available to affiliates, who use it to hold victims' data hostage in exchange for a ransom payment.

How RaaS works:

1. RaaS operators develop the ransomware and manage the backend infrastructure, including:
• Code
• Affiliate portal
• Payment handling
• Customer support
2. Affiliates sign up and pay a fee to the RaaS operator, either as a:
• One-time license
• Monthly subscription
• Profit-sharing arrangement
3. Affiliates launch ransomware campaigns, often using phishing and social engineering to infect targets. Once a victim's files are encrypted, a ransom demand is displayed.
4. If the victim pays, the RaaS operator provides the decryption key and takes a cut of the profits, with the rest going to the affiliate.

RaaS has significantly contributed to the proliferation of ransomware by lowering the technical barrier to entry for cybercriminals, providing a turnkey solution complete with 24/7 support.

To protect against RaaS attacks, organizations should:

• Implement robust cybersecurity measures
• Educate employees about phishing and social engineering
• Maintain regular data backups
• Keep software and systems up-to-date
• Develop an incident response plan

For more information on RaaS, its impact, and prevention strategies, visit our detailed Ransomware as a Service guide.

Mobile Ransomware

Mobile ransomware is a type of malware that targets smartphones, locking the device's screen or encrypting data to prevent access until a ransom is paid to the attacker. It uses scare tactics to pressure victims into paying fees to regain access to their device and data.

Mobile ransomware typically spreads through:

• Compromised websites
• Fake versions of legitimate apps
• Malicious links or attachments in phishing emails

Once on the device, mobile ransomware may lock the screen, encrypt files, steal sensitive data, or use the device to spread the malware further via the victim's contacts.

The risks of mobile ransomware include permanently losing access to personal files and data if no backup exists and having sensitive information exposed if the attacker gains full access to the compromised device. In some cases, even if the ransom is paid, access may not be restored.

To protect against mobile ransomware:

• Frequently back up data
• Keep the operating system and apps updated
• Only download apps from official app stores
• Install a mobile security solution
• Be wary of suspicious emails and websites
• Don't grant administrator rights to others
• Never pay the ransom

If infected, booting into safe mode may allow removal of the malicious app.

For more information on mobile ransomware, its risks, and prevention strategies, visit our comprehensive Mobile Ransomware Guide.