Information security experts point to the growing popularity of subscription-based distribution of hacker services, the growing popularity of malware modification services, and the emergence of a market for cheap malware as 2025 trends in the dark web. socialbites.ca learned this from a study of the darknet market by Positive Technologies, a copy of which was made available to editors.
According to Positive Technologies, the darknet, despite the apparent anarchy, shows signs of a legal market with high competition, encouraging sellers to improve the quality of goods and services, build customer relationships and strengthen their positions. As an example, here in one of the dark forums in honor of Black Friday there is a promotion with a 50% discount on all tariff plans. Additionally, sites are actively working on their own security by offering bug bounty programs and guarantor services to protect user data and funds.
The key trend is the expansion of the subscription model into the malware, phishing and DDoS attacks segments. Attackers gain access to toolkits, instructions, and technical support for a certain period of time. According to Positive Technologies, in the near future this model will expand to the exploit segment and cover all shadow forums.
Another important trend is the development of the malware market. In the third quarter of 2024, 65% of cyber attacks used malware. The likes of legitimate file checking services are emerging on the darknet, allowing attackers to bypass security systems. Ordering malware modifications tailored to the characteristics of attacks and victims is also popular, and a market is emerging for affordable malware, particularly ransomware, for individual attacks on small and medium-sized businesses.
To attract customers, sellers actively use trial periods, create stores of additional services (for example, magazines on the malware control panel) and even launch their own cryptocurrencies. It is expected that a “mystery shopper” function will appear in the future to evaluate the quality of services.
Previously Kaspersky Lab in the name Hackers attacking Russia with encryption viruses in 2024.
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Source: Gazeta

Jackson Ruhl is a tech and sci-fi expert, who writes for “Social Bites”. He brings his readers the latest news and developments from the world of technology and science fiction.