Ransomware Gangs Now Offer Legal Advice—And SMBs Are Squarely in Their Sights

If cybercriminals targeting your business suddenly boast built-in legal counsel, the stakes just got higher. The notorious Qilin ransomware group has rolled out a ‘Call Lawyer’ feature to help their affiliates squeeze victims—like small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs)—for even larger ransoms. That means the crooks aren’t just locking your data: they’re lawyering up to double down on their demands.

What’s New: Ransomware Gangs Adopt ‘Call Lawyer’ to Boost Pressure

According to Cybereason, a major cybersecurity firm, Qilin’s new “Call Lawyer” feature gives its users (the criminals running attacks) direct advice on how to pressure businesses during ransom negotiations. This move follows a trend: as ransomware gangs become more sophisticated, they’re using every tool to threaten and manipulate their targets—including guiding victims through the legal aftermath of a breach.

Why This Matters for SMB Leaders

Many SMBs believe they’re too small to be a target. But thanks to Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) models, criminals can now launch targeted attacks at scale. Qilin is filling the void left by dismantled competitors and using tactics once reserved for Fortune 500 targets. With legal consultants in their playbook, their ransom demands can hit harder and last longer. The result? Higher ransom demands, deeper reputational harm, and mounting legal complexity for businesses with modest resources.

Statistic: Only 43% of small businesses have a formal cybersecurity defense plan, yet the average cost of a ransomware attack on SMBs exceeded $150,000 in 2023 (Verizon DBIR, 2024).

Three Actions to Secure, Simplify, and Reduce Costs in 30 Days

Strengthen Endpoint and Device Protection. Modern ransomware relies on exploiting gaps in your computers and mobile devices. Use advanced endpoint security software that includes ransomware detection, automatic patching, and threat isolation. Consider a managed Device Threat Protection solution like BoltWork Device Threat Protection.
Harden Identity Defenses. Qilin, like most groups, strikes via phishing—tricking staff into revealing credentials. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on every account, and regularly audit account access. For expert guidance and 24/7 monitoring, explore BoltWork Identity Threat Protection.
Run a Ransomware Readiness Assessment. Don’t wait until you’re attacked. Schedule a third-party review of your backups, disaster recovery, and cyber insurance. Make sure you have immutable (un-editable) backup copies disconnected from your main systems, so you can restore critical data without paying a ransom.

Curious how BoltWork can help your business stay a step ahead of attackers? Book a 15-min security consult to assess your current risks and get a clear action plan.

Cut Through Legal Confusion Before Attackers Threaten You

When attackers roll out legal muscle, businesses without robust protections risk not just a ransom, but also regulatory fines and loss of client trust. Handling this complexity is almost impossible for SMBs acting alone. A managed IT & cybersecurity partner can design defenses for your size and risk, ensure compliance, and provide guidance if the worst happens.

Key Takeaways for SMBs

Ransomware gangs like Qilin are professionalizing—don’t underestimate them.
Legal tactics can increase the cost, duration, and impact of an attack on your business.
Proactive IT security, especially for devices and identities, is the simplest and most cost-effective defense.
Don’t wait to experience a breach before getting expert help—prepare and protect now.

Ransomware is evolving fast, but your business can stay ahead. Book a free 15-minute consult with BoltWork’s specialists to safeguard your operations and simplify security—without breaking your budget.

References

Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR), 2024
Cybereason Qilin Ransomware Research, 2024