FIN7, FIN8, and Others Use Ragnar Loader for Persistent Access and Ransomware Operations
Threat hunters have shed light on a sophisticated and evolving malware toolkit called Ragnar Loader that's used by various cybercrime and ransomware groups like Ragnar Locker (aka Monstrous Mantis), FIN7, FIN8, and Ruthless Mantis (ex-REvil).
TL;DR
Threat hunters have shed light on a “sophisticated and evolving malware toolkit” called Ragnar Loader that’s used by various cybercrime and ransomware groups like Ragnar Locker (aka Monstrous Mantis), FIN7, FIN8, and Ruthless Mantis (ex-REvil). Ragnar Loader plays a key role in keeping access to compromised systems, helping attackers stay in networks for long-term operations.
FIN7, FIN8, and Others Use Ragnar Loader for Persistent Access and Ransomware Operations
Threat hunters have shed light on a “sophisticated and evolving malware toolkit” called Ragnar Loader that’s used by various cybercrime and ransomware groups like Ragnar Locker (aka Monstrous Mantis), FIN7, FIN8, and Ruthless Mantis (ex-REvil). Ragnar Loader plays a key role in keeping access to compromised systems, helping attackers stay in networks for long-term operations.
Understanding Ragnar Loader
Ragnar Loader is a malware toolkit designed to maintain persistent access to compromised systems. This toolkit is employed by several notorious cybercrime groups, including:
- Ragnar Locker: Also known as Monstrous Mantis, this group uses Ragnar Loader to keep long-term access to networks.
- FIN7: A financially motivated threat group that utilizes Ragnar Loader for its operations.
- FIN8: Known for its targeted attacks, FIN8 employs Ragnar Loader to maintain access to compromised systems.
- Ruthless Mantis: Formerly known as REvil, this group uses Ragnar Loader for its ransomware operations.
How Ragnar Loader Operates
Ragnar Loader operates by establishing a foothold in compromised systems, allowing attackers to maintain access for extended periods. This persistence is crucial for long-term operations, such as data exfiltration and ransomware deployment. The toolkit’s sophisticated design makes it difficult to detect and remove, ensuring that attackers can continue their malicious activities undetected.
The Impact of Ragnar Loader
The use of Ragnar Loader by these cybercrime groups highlights the growing sophistication of malware toolkits. By maintaining persistent access, attackers can:
- Exfiltrate Data: Steal sensitive information over extended periods.
- Deploy Ransomware: Lock down systems and demand ransom payments.
- Evade Detection: Remain undetected within networks, making it harder for security teams to respond.
Additional Resources
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