What is Netwalker Ransomware? Attack Methods & Protection Tips | UpGuard

Netwalker (aka Circus Spider) is a Windows ransomware family that evolved into a Ransomware-as-a-Service operation using double-extortion (encrypting and exfiltrating data) to coerce victims; it spread via phishing (COVID-themed lures), exposed RDP access, and recruited skilled affiliates on criminal forums, targeting sectors including healthcare and corporate services, and demanding bitcoin payments—this report describes its operations, victims, attack lifecycle, and mitigation recommendations.