The LockBit ransomware group is one of the most prolific and impactful ransomware operations to date, first emerging in 2019 and evolving into a highly organized ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) ecosystem. LockBit has targeted organizations of all sizes worldwide, across sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, financial services, education, and government. Its scale and consistency made it a dominant force in the ransomware landscape for several years.

LockBit is well known for refining double and triple extortion tactics, combining data encryption with data theft, public leak threats, and in some cases direct pressure on customers or partners of victims. Initial access commonly occurs via phishing, compromised credentials, exploitation of vulnerabilities, and exposed remote services, followed by rapid lateral movement and automated deployment to maximize impact.

Technically, LockBit distinguished itself through highly optimized ransomware variants, fast encryption speeds, and aggressive evasion techniques designed to disable security tools and backups. Although international law enforcement actions in 2024 disrupted LockBit’s infrastructure, the group’s tooling and affiliates have continued to influence successor and rebranded ransomware operations, underscoring LockBit’s lasting impact on the modern ransomware ecosystem.