Malware-as-a-service (MaaS) refers to a model in which cybercriminals offer malware or malicious tools and services for sale or rent to other individuals or groups who lack the technical expertise to create their own malware.
It operates similarly to legitimate software-as-a-service (SaaS) models, where customers pay for the use of software hosted on remote servers. In the context of MaaS, cybercriminals provide a range of malicious capabilities, such as ransomware, botnets, information stealers, and other types of malware, allowing less skilled individuals to carry out cyberattacks without the need for advanced technical knowledge.
Facilitation of the distribution of malware within specific regions or sectors with watering-hole attacks, crossover with access-as-a-service listings, and other vulnerabilities.
MaaS has contributed to the proliferation of cybercrime by lowering the entry barrier for potential attackers and enabling a wider range of malicious activities.