The Play ransomware group (also known as PlayCrypt) is a well-established and active ransomware operation that emerged in mid-2022. Unlike many newer groups, Play has demonstrated consistency and operational maturity, targeting medium to large organizations across sectors such as healthcare, government, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure.

Play is known for its hands-on-keyboard intrusion style, often spending time inside victim environments before deploying ransomware. The group typically gains initial access through exploited vulnerabilities in public-facing services, particularly edge devices, rather than mass phishing. Once inside, Play relies heavily on legitimate administrative tools to move laterally, blend into normal activity, and prepare systems for encryption.

The group uses double extortion tactics, encrypting data while also threatening to release stolen information if ransom demands are not met. Technically, Play ransomware focuses on reliability and speed, disabling backups and recovery mechanisms to limit response options.

Its continued activity highlights the effectiveness of targeted, exploit-driven ransomware campaigns, especially against organizations with exposed infrastructure and limited internal visibility.