Summary: The BlackCat ransomware gang appears to be orchestrating an exit scam, attempting to shut down their operation and abscond with affiliates' funds. They blame the FBI, falsely claiming their website and infrastructure were seized. The gang is now selling the source code for their malware for $5 million. Affiliates have reported being robbed of significant sums, including a $22 million payment from the Change Healthcare ransom. This abrupt shutdown, coupled with attempts to deceive affiliates and authorities, strongly suggests an exit scam.

Analyst Comment:
The BlackCat ransomware gang's exit scam demonstrates a blatant disregard for ethical conduct and further underscores the criminal nature of their operation. Their pattern of rebranding and continuing illicit activities despite law enforcement interventions highlights the challenges faced by authorities in combating cybercrime. Affiliates and victims should exercise caution and report any suspicious activities to relevant authorities to prevent further harm.

Suggested Corrections:
Organizations should enhance their cybersecurity posture by implementing robust defense mechanisms, such as regular security audits, employee training on phishing and social engineering, and ensuring software patches are promptly applied. Collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies and cybersecurity experts are crucial in combating ransomware threats and holding perpetrators accountable. Additionally, potential affiliates should thoroughly vet any partnerships with ransomware operators to avoid becoming unwitting accomplices in criminal activities.

Link(s):
https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/ne...mware-shuts-down-in-exit-scam-blames-the-feds