Threat Landscape Update: Ransomware-as-a-Service and Advanced Modular Malware cover art

Threat Landscape Update: Ransomware-as-a-Service and Advanced Modular Malware

Threat Landscape Update: Ransomware-as-a-Service and Advanced Modular Malware

Listen for free

View show details

About this listen

 In this episode of the Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, host⁠ ⁠⁠Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Tori Murphy, Anna Seitz, and Chuong Dong to break down two threats: the modular backdoor PipeMagic and Medusa ransomware. They discuss how PipeMagic disguises itself as a ChatGPT desktop app to deliver malware, its sophisticated modular design, and what defenders can do to detect it. The team also explores Medusa’s evolution into a ransomware-as-a-service model, its use of double extortion tactics, and the broader threat landscape shaped by ransomware groups, social engineering, and the abuse of legitimate tools. In this episode you’ll learn: Why modular malware is harder to detect and defend against How attackers abuse vulnerable drivers to disable security tools Why leak sites play a central role in ransomware operations Some questions we ask: How did Microsoft researchers uncover PipeMagic in the wild? Why do ransomware groups often borrow names and themes from mythology? What initial access techniques are commonly associated with Medusa attacks? Resources: View Anna Seitz on LinkedIn View Chuong Dong on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of N2K media network.
No reviews yet
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.