AI ransomware is on the rise as attackers scale up: Report
TRM Labs identified nine new ransomware groups that extensively use AI to scam their victims.
- TRM Labs looked at how nine emerging ransomware groups leverage AI
- AI enables ransomware groups to massively scale up their operations
- Groups use AI tools to automate social engineering attacks, which are on the rise
Since the latest AI tools emerged, scammers have been using them in their attacks. On Monday, Oct. 6, blockchain analytics platform TRM Labs published a report on nine emerging ransomware groups and how they leverage AI.
These groups include Arkana Security, Dire Wolf, Frag, and Sarcoma, among others, which deploy different tactics and target different victims. However, what they have in common is the increasing use of AI in their ransomware operations.
How ransomware groups use AI in scams
The report noted that AI is becoming an integral part of ransomware operations. Notably, it enables these groups to massively scale their activities. Moreover, this technology is enabling new types of tactics, especially those that exploit the human element of security.
“Artificial intelligence is transforming the ransomware ecosystem — not just by making attacks more scalable, but by changing the playbook entirely,” said Ari Redbord, Global Head of Policy at TRM Labs. “We’re seeing faster operations, more sophisticated social engineering, and new tactics that rely on regulatory and reputational pressure instead of encryption. The line between financially motivated groups and state-linked actors is also becoming increasingly blurred.”
This specifically applies to social engineering scams, which used to be time-intensive and required extensive research and preparation. Now, ransomware attackers can leverage AI to write messages and create deepfake videos that are increasingly believable.
Scammers also use large language models (LLMs) to automate code generation, lowering the barrier to entry for attackers. AI also enables the creation of polymorphic malware, which changes with each infection, making detection much more difficult.
Disclaimer: The content of this article solely reflects the author's opinion and does not represent the platform in any capacity. This article is not intended to serve as a reference for making investment decisions.
You may also like
The 2025 Bitcoin Collapse: Underlying Factors and Tactical Considerations for Cryptocurrency Investors
- The 2025 Bitcoin crash erased $1.2 trillion in value, driven by macroeconomic tightening, leverage, and geopolitical tensions. - Financialization linked crypto to traditional markets, exposing systemic risks through institutional entanglements and fragile liquidity. - Regulatory divergence between U.S. pro-blockchain policies and EU MiCAR rules created jurisdictional conflicts and operational misalignment. - Investors must prioritize diversification, monitor regulatory shifts, and prepare for prolonged v
Blockchain’s $6.8 Billion Bet: Will Advancements Outpace Its Security Risks?
- Terminal Finance's collapse exposed blockchain fintech vulnerabilities from delayed tech adoption and security flaws, triggering sector-wide scrutiny. - Naver-Upbit's $6.8B AI-blockchain merger faces challenges after Upbit's $36M Solana breach, mirroring 2019 North Korean-linked attacks. - Balancer's $116M hack revealed systemic DeFi risks, with debates over audit efficacy despite 11 prior security reviews. - Binance's legal troubles and BNB's price slump highlight market skepticism, while initiatives li
Bitcoin News Update: Krugman Links Bitcoin's Decline to Waning 'Trump Trade' Hype
- Bitcoin's 30% drop from October peak linked to fading "Trump trade" speculation, per Nobel laureate Paul Krugman, who frames it as speculative rather than stable value. - BlackRock's IBIT ETF regained $3.2B profit post-$90K rebound, while SpaceX's $105M BTC transfer sparks custodial strategy debates amid market volatility. - Naver's $10B Dunamu acquisition and corporate Bitcoin treasury moves highlight institutional crypto integration, despite $19B industry selloff and regulatory challenges. - Prediction
Bitcoin News Today: "Conflicting Whale Strategies Cast Uncertainty on Bitcoin's Path to $100K"
- Bitcoin's drop below $100,000 coincided with mixed whale strategies, including accumulation, shorting, and exchange deposits, signaling uncertain market direction. - Ethereum whales used 16.08 million DAI to buy 5,343 ETH at $3,010, while Bitcoin whales deposited 9,000 BTC, potentially signaling selling preparation. - Derivatives markets showed conflicting bets, with a $91M BTC short and $36.4M long flip, while ETF inflows ($84M total) hinted at institutional confidence amid macroeconomic risks. - Analys
Trending news
MoreCrypto prices
More
