As Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) continues to evolve, it has become the weapon of choice for many cybercriminals. RaaS enables even low-skilled threat actors to launch sophisticated attacks by renting ransomware toolkits from experienced developers. This business model has fueled the rise of numerous RaaS variants wreaking havoc across industries worldwide. In this post, we’ll explore the top RaaS variants currently active, providing insights into their behavior and impact — and what organizations can do to protect themselves.

1. LockBit: The Relentless Extortionist

LockBit is arguably the most prolific RaaS group today. Known for its speed, adaptability, and aggressive double extortion tactics, LockBit has been involved in thousands of ransomware attacks globally. This variant continuously evolves with newer versions like LockBit 2.0, 3.0, and even LockBit Green, each improving evasion and encryption methods.

Victims range from healthcare to finance, and its affiliate model attracts a wide range of cybercriminals — making LockBit a persistent threat.

2. BlackCat (ALPHV): The First RaaS Written in Rust

BlackCat, also known as ALPHV, is the first major RaaS written in Rust, which makes it harder to detect and more adaptable across systems. What sets BlackCat apart is its customizable payloads and willingness to use data leak sites as a method of pressuring victims.

Its developer-friendly features make it especially attractive on underground forums.

3. Cl0p: The Data Extortion Expert

Rather than encrypting files, Cl0p Ransomware specializes in data theft and public shaming. It rose to fame through high-profile attacks such as the MOVEit breach. The group operates a blog on the dark web to post stolen data, leveraging fear and reputational damage to demand ransoms.

Cl0p has shifted focus toward targeting enterprise networks, often exploiting known vulnerabilities in secure file transfer applications.

4. RansomEXX: Enterprise-Level Targeting

RansomEXX is a RaaS that transitioned from Windows to Linux environments, widening its scope and capability. Its attacks typically target large organizations, encrypting core infrastructure systems and demanding multimillion-dollar payments.

The variant has been used in attacks against government entities and multinational corporations.

5. Hive: A Disrupted Yet Formidable Threat

Hive Ransomware had its infrastructure seized by law enforcement, but remnants of the group — and its code — live on. Known for its sophisticated encryption and support for multiple operating systems, Hive was popular among affiliates prior to its takedown.

Its legacy continues to influence emerging RaaS operations, especially in how affiliates communicate with victims.

Protecting Against RaaS Threats

Understanding these top ransomware variants is the first step in building a proactive cybersecurity posture. Organizations should implement robust endpoint protection, employee training, and regular vulnerability scans to mitigate risks. For more threat intelligence and insights into cybercriminal networks, explore our tools at DatSpy's cybersecurity intelligence platform.

Stay ahead of emerging threats by leveraging real-time threat feeds and forensic tools — available now on DatSpy.