Cybercrime has come a long way from the days of lone hackers operating in basements. Today, cybercriminals operate within sophisticated, organized enterprises, mirroring the tactics and strategies of legitimate businesses. One of the latest trends reshaping this underground economy is Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS), a model allowing hackers to rent out their malware tools and services to less technically skilled individuals for a fee, much like the popular Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model. But unlike SaaS, MaaS isn’t about productivity; it’s about profit through cybercrime.
Malware-as-a-Service essentially functions as a dark web marketplace for digital crime tools. Professional hackers develop malware and sell access to their creations, complete with user guides, support, and even “customer service” for those looking to launch their own cyberattacks. This anonymity shields these hackers from law enforcement while allowing them to profit, all without the risk of exposing their identity. For the buyer (individuals with minimal technical skill), MaaS opens the door to a realm of cybercrime previously reserved for skilled professionals.
Cybercriminals provide everything a would-be hacker needs to execute an attack. Like any SaaS product, MaaS comes with “step-by-step instructions” to help customers deploy malware, conduct phishing campaigns, or initiate ransomware attacks with ease. The dark web is where these services are usually bought and sold, as it offers the privacy that cybercriminals need to evade detection.
Not only does it lower the entry barrier for cybercrime, but it also introduces new business models. MaaS providers often charge subscription fees, one-time payments, or even a cut of the profits generated by the attacks. Unlike the developers, however, most MaaS “customers” don’t care about obtaining data; they’re simply there to disrupt, steal, or sell stolen information to the highest bidder on dark web forums.
Related: Phishing Attacks: How to Identify and Protect Your Business From This Cyber Threat
MaaS providers mimic legitimate businesses by offering packages, add-ons, and even “aftercare” for victims. Here’s a look at some of the services on offer:
Buyers can choose from a range of attack types, including ransomware, phishing kits, adware, and banking trojans. For the less tech-savvy, these pre-packaged attacks make cybercrime as easy as a few clicks.
In cases where a “customer” has a specific business in mind, MaaS providers offer tailored attacks like spear-phishing and whaling. These targeted attacks use social engineering tactics to exploit individuals in high-ranking positions or those with access to sensitive data.
Even cybercriminals value good customer service! MaaS providers guide customers through their attacks, offering analytics on timing and technique, and troubleshooting when things don’t go as planned.
Surprisingly, some MaaS providers offer “victim care,” informing organizations on how to avoid future breaches and even offering explanations on Bitcoin payments for ransom demands.
Related: What is a Ransomware Attack and How AI Can Help Anticipate and Mitigate
The scalability of MaaS means that even low-level criminals can access advanced cybercrime tools, which dramatically increases the volume and frequency of cyberattacks. This commodification of malware creates a market flooded with unskilled threat actors, exposing businesses to a greater risk of data theft, downtime, and revenue loss. For organizations, MaaS means that the threat landscape is now more saturated and unpredictable than ever.
While cybersecurity experts work around the clock to combat MaaS, organizations must take proactive steps to protect themselves. Here are some critical actions to consider:
Regularly update and patch systems to close vulnerabilities. Effective patch management ensures that exploitable weaknesses are minimized, reducing the attack surface available to hackers.
A strong password can mean the difference between a protected account and a compromised one. Avoid weak passwords and implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security.
Malicious pop-ups often masquerade as legitimate alerts, tricking users into downloading malware. Teach employees to avoid clicking on suspicious pop-ups, especially those claiming that their system is infected.
Phishing remains one of the easiest ways for attackers to breach systems. Educate your team on recognizing phishing emails and equip them with strategies to identify and avoid these attacks
Ensure your antivirus software is up-to-date and regularly scans for threats. For organizations, implementing antivirus solutions across all devices can help detect malware from MaaS botnets and reduce the likelihood of a breach.
MaaS doesn’t discriminate between devices—mobile phones are equally vulnerable. Encourage employees to avoid downloading apps from outside official app stores and be cautious of suspicious SMS links and emails.
Related: How to Build a Robust Cybersecurity Strategy for Your Business
Malware-as-a-Service has transformed cybercrime into a business model, empowering even the most unskilled hackers to conduct sophisticated attacks. This evolution in the cybercrime world means businesses must adopt a multi-layered security approach, ensuring that their defenses can adapt as such attacks grow more sophisticated. By staying informed, training employees, and implementing best practices, your organization can better withstand the rising tide of digital crime.
Protect your business from evolving cyber threats with tailored cybersecurity solutions. Contact KiwiTech today to safeguard your digital assets.