Ransomware attacks rarely begin with encryption.
In most cases, the initial foothold into an organisation’s network is obtained long before an attack is launched. Initial Access Brokers, commonly known as IABs, play a critical role in today’s ransomware ecosystem by selling access to compromised corporate networks to other cybercriminal groups.
This whitepaper from Outpost24 presents an in-depth investigation into the IAB ecosystem and its direct and indirect links to ransomware operations. Based on extensive research conducted by Outpost24 KrakenLabs, the report examines how access is obtained, sold, and ultimately used to execute ransomware and other financially motivated attacks.
Drawing on real-world underground forum activity, leaked conversations, and marketplace analysis, the research provides rare visibility into how cybercrime has become increasingly professionalised and specialised.
You will learn how:
- Initial Access Brokers operate within the cybercriminal supply chain
- Outpost24 researchers identified where and how corporate network access is sold
- Compromised credentials, exploits, and remote access tools are used to gain persistence
- Underground auctions and private messaging platforms facilitate access sales
- IABs maintain long-term partnerships with ransomware groups
- Access characteristics such as privilege level and industry influence pricing
- Early detection of leaked credentials can disrupt ransomware attacks before execution
The whitepaper includes detailed case studies that reveal direct interactions between IABs and ransomware affiliates, evidence of profit-sharing agreements, and correlations between access sales and organisations later appearing on ransomware data leak sites.
The report also highlights why credentials remain the most common entry point for attackers and explains how continuous monitoring of leaked credentials and external attack surfaces can significantly reduce exposure.
This whitepaper is designed for CISOs, security leaders, threat intelligence teams, and IT decision-makers seeking a deeper understanding of how ransomware attacks begin and how to intervene earlier in the attack chain.
Download the whitepaper from Outpost24 to gain actionable insight into the IAB ecosystem and learn how proactive exposure management can help stop ransomware attacks before they start.
