Ransomware Rumble: Why Busting Big Gangs Won’t Stop the Malware Menace
Commodity malware remains a persistent threat despite law enforcement’s takedown of notorious RaaS/MaaS groups. The underground economy is rife with drama, trust issues, and affiliates eager to switch operators for better deals, making it crucial to disrupt these shady alliances.

Hot Take:
It turns out that ransomware gangs are just like startups: poorly managed, full of drama, and constantly trying to outdo each other. The only difference? Instead of pitching to VCs, they’re holding your data hostage.
Key Points:
- International law enforcement efforts have led to the shutdown of major ransomware and malware-as-a-service (RaaS/MaaS) operators.
- Despite these successes, the threat from commodity malware persists due to smaller operators and affiliates.
- The cybercrime economy operates with a business-like structure, complete with HR departments, admins, and competitive practices.
- Affiliates are increasingly getting a larger share of the ransom, sometimes as high as 90%.
- Law enforcement is focusing on disrupting the trust between malware operators and affiliates to destabilize the underground economy.
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