How is Ransomware Delivered?
Updated on October 21, 2022, by Xcitium
How Is Ransomware Delivered?
Ransomware is delivered through phishing emails, malicious attachments, drive-by downloads, exploit kits, remote desktop (RDP) attacks, and malicious ads. Attackers use these methods to gain access to a system and then deploy ransomware that encrypts files or locks devices.
Ransomware attacks are evolving at an incredible pace and are becoming complicated than ever before. Ransomware is not going away and, in fact, is evolving every day- making it much more difficult for security products to avert these threats.
Cybercriminals are using more sophisticated technology to hack computer and data. The internet has gone wild in terms of cybercrime, so we should protect ourselves against it on a regular basis.
What can you do to prevent ransomware? First, you must understand how ransomware spreads, so, that, you can take the necessary precautionary measures against it.
Spam is the most common method used by cybercriminals to distribute ransomware. It is generally delivered using some form of social engineering wherein users are tricked into downloading a malicious e-mail attachment or clicking a malicious link.
The ransomware is usually disguised as a legitimate email attachment and sent to unwary users. If the user opens such email attachments, it can lead to an infection. Another way used by cybercriminals is hiding the ransomware links in a link button or the body of the email.
When clicked, it then redirects the user to a malicious website that leads to an infection. Hence, it is advisable that you verify the authenticity of any file or email attachments from unknown sources, before opening it.
Another common method used for delivering ransomware is through exploit kits. These are software packages that are specially designed to identify security vulnerabilities in the victim’s computer and exploit them to install ransomware.
In this exploit kit type of attack, cybercriminals insert codes on a seemingly legitimate website that redirects victims to a malicious site. Unlike the email spam method, this method doesn’t require additional actions from the victim. This method is also referred to as a ‘drive-by-download’ attack.
Cybercriminals lure unwary users to download ransomware by hiding malicious ransomware codes within cracked versions of different software such as games, adult content, online game cheats, and many more.
Top 7 Ways Ransomware Is Delivered
1. Phishing Emails
- Most common delivery method
- Includes:
- Malicious links
- Infected attachments (Word, PDF, ZIP)
- Triggers infection when opened
👉 Ransomware is often disguised as legitimate communication
2. Malicious Attachments & Downloads
- Files containing hidden malware
- Common formats:
- .docm, .exe, .zip
- Executes when opened
3. Drive-By Downloads
- Infection occurs just by visiting a compromised website
- No user interaction required in some cases
- Exploits browser or plugin vulnerabilities
4. Exploit Kits
- Automated tools that scan for vulnerabilities
- Deploy ransomware if weaknesses are found
- Often delivered via compromised websites or ads
5. Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Attacks
- Attackers brute-force weak passwords
- Gain direct access to systems
- Manually install ransomware
6. Malvertising (Malicious Ads)
- Infected ads on legitimate websites
- Redirect users to exploit pages
- Can trigger silent downloads
7. Software Vulnerabilities
- Unpatched systems are prime targets
- Attackers exploit:
- OS flaws
- Application vulnerabilities
Advanced Ransomware Delivery Techniques
Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS)
- Attackers buy ready-made ransomware kits
- Lowers skill barrier for cybercriminals
Initial Access Brokers (IABs)
- Hackers sell access to already-compromised systems
- Ransomware groups then deploy payload
Social Engineering Attacks
- Fake updates, tools, or alerts
- Trick users into installing malware
Ransomware Delivery Methods Comparison
| Method | How It Works | User Interaction Required |
|---|---|---|
| Phishing emails | Click link or open attachment | Yes |
| Drive-by downloads | Visit infected website | No |
| Exploit kits | Exploit system vulnerabilities | No |
| RDP attacks | Unauthorized remote access | No |
| Malvertising | Click or load malicious ads | Sometimes |
| Software exploits | Abuse unpatched systems | No |
How Ransomware Delivery Works (Attack Chain)
- Access – attacker gains entry (phishing, exploit, RDP)
- Execution – malicious code runs silently
- Payload Delivery – ransomware installs
- Encryption – files are locked
- Ransom Demand – payment requested
FAQ
What is the most common way ransomware is delivered?
Phishing emails are the most common method, where attackers trick users into clicking malicious links or opening infected attachments.
Can ransomware spread without user interaction?
Yes, ransomware can spread through drive-by downloads or exploiting system vulnerabilities without user action.
How do hackers install ransomware?
Hackers gain access through phishing, exploits, or RDP, then execute ransomware manually or automatically on the system.
Is ransomware always delivered via email?
No, ransomware can also be delivered through websites, software vulnerabilities, malicious ads, and remote access attacks.
How To Protect Your Computer From Ransomware?
Download files and other software only from legitimate websites.
- Install a good firewall program like Xcitium Firewall.
- Do not open links, suspicious emails or attachments from unknown sources.
- Most important of all, download and install a good antivirus program like Xcitium Antivirus.
The best way to prevent ransomware is by using Xcitium Antivirus. In case of organizations, Xcitium Advanced Endpoint Protection (AEP) is the ideal solution.
With a powerful containment engine that automatically contains all untrusted processes and applications in a secure virtual environment, Comodo AEP provides complete protection against any malicious software including ransomware.
For unknown files, Xcitium’s local, and cloud-based Specialized Threat Analysis and Protection (STAP) engine provide a verdict (good or bad) almost instantly.
Xcitium AEP can quickly identify and eliminate malware (including ransomware) across endpoints without affecting end-user experience. Try Xcitium Advanced Endpoint Protection today!
For more information on Xcitium Advanced Endpoint Protection, contact us at or +1 888-256-2608.
