Hunters International Dumps Ransomware, Goes Full-on Extortion - #HuntersInternational
Hunters International, a ransomware group that emerged in late 2023, has evolved from a double-extortion model to focus solely on data theft and extortion. Initially suspected to be a rebrand of the Hive ransomware, the group has targeted over 200 organizations across various sectors and regions, using sophisticated tactics and tools. Their ransomware, built in Rust, has proven challenging for cybersecurity platforms to detect. In early 2025, Hunters International rebranded as "World Leaks," shifting away from encryption to concentrate on data exfiltration. This transition reflects broader trends in cybercrime, with groups adapting to increased law enforcement pressure and seeking more profitable, stealthy methods. The group's activities, including high-profile attacks on Tata Technologies and others, highlight the ongoing challenges in cybersecurity and the need for robust defenses against evolving threats.