User:Joseph.mapue/sandbox

LockBit is a ransomware-as-a-service operation that was first detected in September 2019. Initially called ABCD ransomware or .abcd virus, LockBit has evolved into the most prevalent ransomware variant in 2021 and most of 2022. The cyber criminal group behind LockBit use extortion tactics upon breaching their targets' networks. To enforce their ransom demands, the LockBit group deploys automatic encryption tools to hijack sensitive data and threatens to leak said data publicly if the victim refuses to pay the ransom. In August 2022, the LockBit gang announced that they are planning to add Distributed Denial of Service attacks in their strategy.

Accenture, Entrust, and Merseyrail count among the many private organisations and public sector agencies that have been attacked by LockBit.