In a notable development within the realm of cybercrime, a prominent ransomware operation known as Qilin is apparently offering its criminal partners a remarkable new service. Affiliates who use the group’s tools to extort businesses and organizations can now access what is being described as a “Call a Lawyer” button.
This unprecedented feature is reportedly aimed at assisting affiliates who encounter difficulties with victims refusing to pay the demanded ransom. When victims push back, threaten legal action, or involve law enforcement, the affiliates using the Qilin platform can potentially leverage this service to receive advice or assistance.
The specifics of who these “lawyers” are and what kind of legal guidance they might offer to individuals engaged in illegal activities remain unclear. However, the introduction of such a service underscores the growing sophistication and business-like structure adopted by leading ransomware groups. It suggests an attempt to professionalize certain aspects of their operations and provide their cybercriminal affiliates with resources to navigate the complexities and pressures that arise when victims resist paying extorted funds.
This move highlights the evolving tactics in the ransomware landscape, where groups are not only focused on breaching systems and encrypting data but also on refining the post-attack negotiation and extortion process. Providing access to what is billed as legal counsel represents a novel and audacious step, illustrating the lengths to which these organizations will go to support their network of criminals and ensure the maximization of profits from their illicit activities. The existence of such a feature could empower affiliates to feel more secure or better equipped when dealing with particularly challenging or legally savvy victims.
Source: https://www.tripwire.com/state-of-security/qilin-offers-call-lawyer-button-affiliates-attempting-extort-ransoms-victims
