Ransomware Gangs Split Up: What It Means for Cybersecurity in 2025
Ransomware might sound like a far-off tech issue, but in today’s digital world, it’s closer to home than many of us realize. In recent years, ransomware groups have grown more dangerous and more organized. But now, things are starting to shift. The landscape is changing rapidly, and cybersecurity experts are taking note.
What’s Happening in the Ransomware World Right Now?
In short, ransomware is getting more fragmented. That means the big, well-known hacker groups that used to dominate this space are starting to break apart. Some have disbanded, others are splintering into smaller subgroups, and a few newcomers are stepping in. This shift has reached what many are calling a “breaking point.”
There’s another twist: while many cybercrime groups are falling apart, one notorious gang is making a comeback. Yes, LockBit is back on the scene, and they are more active than ever. If you’ve never heard of LockBit, they’re one of the most infamous ransomware gangs in modern cybercrime. They’ve been behind major attacks on businesses around the world. Just when many thought they were fading away, they’ve resurfaced with fresh tactics and a new set of tools.
Why Are Ransomware Groups Breaking Apart?
So, why are these groups falling apart in the first place?
Here are a few key reasons:
- Internal disputes: Like any team, ransomware gangs often deal with disagreements and power struggles which can lead to splintering.
- Law enforcement pressure: Ongoing international efforts from police and security agencies are putting real heat on these groups.
- Money disputes: These gangs often argue over how to split profits, which causes tension and breakups.
It’s very similar to what you might see in the business world – only these aren’t startups or tech firms. These are well-organized (and illegal) cybercrime operations. When things go sideways, members often take their tools, techniques, and knowledge and launch new, separate operations.
Smaller Gangs, Bigger Problems?
You might think that smaller ransomware groups are less dangerous. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
While individual attacks might be less sophisticated, the sheer number of new actors entering the space is making the ransomware problem harder to control. Think of it like this: instead of facing one massive storm, cybersecurity teams are now dealing with dozens of smaller ones popping up randomly.
These smaller groups tend to:
- Target small and mid-sized businesses
- Use simplified but still harmful malware tools
- Operate under the radar
For example, one small business owner recently shared how their accounting firm was hit by a ransomware attack that encrypted all client records. The attackers demanded nearly $100,000 in cryptocurrency. The owner had no backup system in place and had to negotiate a partial recovery. It was a wake-up call for them – and a warning for others.
LockBit’s Return: What Does It Mean?
Just when it seemed like the LockBit group had quieted down, they’re suddenly back and making waves. LockBit has re-emerged with a new look, a more polished network, and stronger malicious tools. They’ve also updated their dark web leak site with better design and faster hosting. It’s clear they’re not planning to fade away.
Cybersecurity experts have found clues showing that LockBit might never have truly disappeared. Instead, they likely took a step back to regroup and adapt. Now, they’re hitting new targets with revised tactics.
What makes LockBit even more dangerous this time around?
- Better evasion techniques: They’ve learned how to hide from antivirus programs and firewalls more effectively.
- Improved ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) options: They allow other criminals to use their malware for a cut of the profits.
- Targeting a wider range of victims: From local governments to hospitals to schools, no one is off-limits.
How This Impacts Everyday People and Small Businesses
You might be thinking, “I’m not a big company, why should I worry?”
Well, here’s the reality: small businesses and everyday users are now common targets. Most of the newer, smaller ransomware groups are aiming at less-protected systems. These victims are more likely to pay the ransom since they often lack solid cybersecurity defenses or regular data backups.
Basic mistakes – like clicking on a strange email link or downloading an unknown attachment – can lead to massive problems.
So what can you do?
Here are a few simple but powerful steps:
- Update your software: Always install the latest patches and updates.
- Use strong passwords: And enable two-factor authentication where you can.
- Back up your files: Keep both cloud and offline backups in case your system gets locked.
- Be careful online: Think twice before clicking unknown links or email attachments.
If you’re a small business owner, now’s the time to invest in a good cybersecurity plan. Waiting until after an attack can cost far more than preparing ahead.
A Growing Global Concern
Ransomware is more than just a tech problem – it’s a global challenge. As these cybercrime groups continue to evolve, international cooperation is becoming a must. Law enforcement agencies across multiple countries are actively tracking these gangs, taking down servers, and arresting key players. While these actions do make a difference, the rise in fragmentation means that taking down one group won’t stop three new ones from forming.
It’s a slippery slope. Criminals are adapting fast, and defenders need to be even faster.
The Bottom Line
Ransomware is in a major transition right now. Large groups like LockBit are re-emerging with new tactics, while fragmentation is spawning a wave of smaller players. This chaotic landscape makes things even riskier for individuals, small businesses, and even critical infrastructure.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. Awareness is growing, and new defense tools are getting better every day.
The best thing we can all do? Stay alert, stay informed, and take simple steps to secure our digital lives. Cybercrime may be evolving fast, but so can our ability to protect ourselves.
Who knew that good password habits and regular backups could be modern-day superpowers?
Stay safe out there.