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Ryuk is one of the most notorious ransomware families, first appearing in August 2018. It is said to be the successor of Hermes ransomware and is considered to be one of the most aggressive forms of ransomware currently being used by cybercriminals. It operates by encrypting files on the infected network, then demanding a payment in exchange for the decryption key.

Ryuk is particularly dangerous as it typically targets large organizations that have significant financial resources. It has been implicated in high-profile attacks on healthcare providers, local governments, and financial institutions. In addition to encrypting files, Ryuk is also capable of stealing sensitive information and compromising entire networks.

One of the most interesting aspects of Ryuk is how it is delivered to targets. It is often spread through a “triple threat” attack that includes phishing emails, botnets, and remote access Trojans. This makes Ryuk incredibly difficult to detect and stop, as it can navigate various security measures to reach its intended target.

Ryuk is also notable for its high ransom demands. Most of the Ryuk attacks recorded have demanded anywhere from $500,000 to $5 million in Bitcoin. This makes it one of the most profitable forms of ransomware, with cybercriminals using the profits to fund other criminal activities.

Despite how dangerous Ryuk is, there are actions that organizations can take to protect themselves from it. The most effective defense is keeping all software up to date and regularly backing up data. Additionally, implementing multi-factor authentication and limiting access to sensitive information can also reduce the risk of falling victim to a Ryuk attack.

In conclusion, Ryuk is a particularly aggressive form of ransomware that targets large organizations. Its complex delivery system and high ransom demands make it difficult to detect and stop, but organizations can take steps to protect themselves from it.