top of page

Understanding Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) Part 3: Exploring Ransomware Builders


Introduction

Welcome back to our series on Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS)!Today, we’re diving into the world of ransomware builders, the tools that allow ransomware to be customized and deployed efficiently.


The Chaos Ransomware Builder

Ransomware builders are tools that enable cybercriminals to create customized ransomware payloads. One of the notable examples is the Chaos Ransomware Builder.


Main Menu Customization Options

The main menu of the Chaos Ransomware Builder offers several customization options for creating ransomware payloads:

  • Ransom Note Contents: Customizing the text of the ransom note that victims see.

  • Ransom Note Filename: Setting the filename for the ransom note.

  • Encrypted File Extension: Changing the extension of encrypted files (default is to randomize).

  • USB and Network Spreading: Enabling the ransomware to spread via USB drives and network shares.

  • Payload Process Name: Customizing the process name of the ransomware.

  • File Extensions to Target: Specifying which file types to encrypt.

  • Delay Prior to Encryption: Setting a delay before the encryption process starts.

  • Startup Persistence Options: Ensuring the ransomware runs on system startup.

  • Custom Executable Icon: Changing the icon of the ransomware executable.


Advanced Options

The Advanced Options section of the Chaos builder provides additional features for more sophisticated attacks:

  • Recovery Tampering Features:

  • Deleting Volume Shadow Copies

  • Deleting the Windows Backup Catalog

  • Disabling Windows Recovery

  • Disabling the Task Manager

  • Custom Wallpaper: Setting a custom wallpaper after encryption.

  • Creating a Decryptor: Generating a decryptor for the created ransomware payload.


Examples of Ransomware Builders

Leaked and Modified Builders

On various darknet forums, you can find screenshots of different ransomware builders. For instance:

  • Babuk Ransomware Builder: Leaked on RAID Forums (now known as Breached.to), allowing others to use or modify it.(Website have been ceased by US government)

  • Ryuk Builder: Modified versions are often sold, providing customized features for affiliates.

These builders, whether leaked or sold, highlight the ease with which ransomware can be distributed and customized.


OS-Specific Payloads

Some builders are capable of creating payloads for different operating systems, such as Linux and ESXi. This capability allows ransomware to target a wide range of environments. For example, ESXi payloads can encrypt all virtual machine (VM) files within an ESX cluster, potentially crippling entire networks.


The Impact of Ransomware Builders

The availability and customization options of ransomware builders significantly lower the barrier to entry for cybercriminals. With tools like the Chaos Ransomware Builder, even less technically skilled attackers can create and deploy ransomware effectively. This democratization of ransomware development has led to an increase in ransomware attacks, making it a pervasive threat in the cybersecurity landscape.


Conclusion

These tools enable the creation of customized and sophisticated ransomware, making it easier for attackers to launch effective attacks.

In our next post, we’ll explore the RaaS dashboard, RaaS marketplaces, and the process of selling access. Stay tuned as we continue to unravel the complexities of RaaS and its impact on cybersecurity.


Akash Patel

28 views0 comments

Commentaires


bottom of page