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In 2025, the global ransomware ecosystem is undergoing a radical transformation, characterized by growing fragmentation, decentralization, and an escalating level of sophistication. Among the emerging players in this evolving landscape, DragonForce has quickly become a formidable force, blending hacktivism with the commercial mechanics of cybercrime. What was once a hacktivist collective, DragonForce Malaysia, is now evolving into a new breed of cybercriminal operation, positioning itself as a key player in the ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) model. This shift represents a significant change not only for the group itself but also for the broader world of cybercrime.
Surge in Ransomware Attacks and DragonForce’s Role in the Crisis
As ransomware attacks continue to surge, the threat landscape grows more dangerous. According to Check Point’s State of Ransomware Q1 2025 report, the first quarter alone saw a record-breaking 2,289 publicly named ransomware victims, a staggering 126% increase from the previous year. At least 74 different ransomware groups are currently operating globally, showcasing the rise of affiliate-driven campaigns and the widespread availability of customizable malware kits. This increase in ransomware incidents has led to a shift in attack methodology, with many attackers focusing more on data extortion rather than encryption, enabling faster and simpler operations.
DragonForce is strategically positioning itself at the forefront of this explosive surge in ransomware activity. The group’s evolution is rooted in its ability to blend the tactics of hacktivism with the growing demands of the cybercrime economy. Initially emerging with its dark web portal, “DragonLeaks,” in December 2023, DragonForce has since expanded its operations into the rapidly growing world of RaaS. As traditional ransomware groups like LockBit, ALPHV, and RansomHub have collapsed due to law enforcement crackdowns and internal instability, DragonForce has moved into the power vacuum, attracting a wave of displaced affiliates eager to join its innovative network.
DragonForce’s Business Model: Monetization and Affiliate Growth
What sets DragonForce apart from other groups in the ransomware ecosystem is its business model, which places a strong emphasis on decentralization and flexibility. The group offers affiliates a competitive 20% revenue share, which undercuts traditional ransomware groups and entices cybercriminals seeking more favorable terms. The platform also provides “white-label” ransomware kits, allowing affiliates to develop their own unique brands, customize malware binaries, and even personalize ransom notes and file extensions.
DragonForce has gone beyond just providing malware; it offers a suite of operational tools, including encrypted storage solutions, negotiation interfaces, and templated leak sites branded as “RansomBay.” These tools simplify the attack process, making it accessible even to those with minimal technical expertise. As law enforcement crackdowns have made other RaaS platforms unstable, DragonForce’s ability to offer operational flexibility and anonymity has allowed it to attract a rapidly growing network of affiliates.
In addition to its infrastructure, DragonForce’s strategic shift in targeting has become more apparent. The group has focused a significant portion of its attacks on UK retail giants, causing prolonged outages of e-commerce platforms, loyalty programs, and exposing large amounts of personally identifiable information (PII). This strategy suggests that DragonForce is increasingly involved in secondary monetization, emphasizing both disruption and data exploitation as part of its business model.
What Undercode Say:
The emergence of DragonForce as a dominant player in the ransomware ecosystem is reflective of broader trends in the cybersecurity landscape. The rise of ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) has allowed a wider array of cybercriminals to operate more efficiently and profitably. DragonForce’s ability to capitalize on the collapse of major ransomware brands shows a deep understanding of the shifting dynamics of the cybercriminal underworld. This not only demonstrates the increasing professionalization of cybercrime but also highlights how decentralized platforms are becoming essential for the success of these operations.
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Furthermore, DragonForce’s focus on high-value targets, such as major UK retail organizations, showcases its growing sophistication. These targets are not only vulnerable to operational disruption but also to data theft, allowing DragonForce to monetize stolen information in multiple ways. This reflects a broader shift in the ransomware ecosystem, where groups are increasingly turning to data extortion and secondary monetization strategies to maximize their profits.
As the ransomware industry becomes more automated and AI-driven, it’s clear that DragonForce is riding the wave of these technological innovations. The increasing use of artificial intelligence in cybercrime — including the automation of malware development, phishing campaigns, and social engineering — is lowering the technical barriers for would-be attackers. DragonForce’s success is a testament to the power of these new tools, which enable even the least skilled cybercriminals to launch sophisticated attacks.
Fact Checker Results
Check Point’s 2025 report corroborates the claims made in this article about the increase in ransomware activity and the rise of affiliate-driven campaigns. The statistics, such as the 126% year-over-year increase in publicly named ransomware victims and the rise of decentralized RaaS platforms, align with current trends observed in the cybersecurity industry. Additionally, the involvement of DragonForce in targeting high-value sectors like UK retail is consistent with the group’s increasing focus on both operational disruption and data exploitation.
Prediction
As 2025 progresses, DragonForce will likely continue its rapid expansion in the ransomware ecosystem. The group’s ability to adapt to a shifting landscape, its offering of decentralized ransomware-as-a-service, and its use of cutting-edge AI tools will allow it to outpace competitors and expand its influence. With major RaaS platforms like LockBit and ALPHV faltering, DragonForce may position itself as the next dominant force in the cybercrime world, taking advantage of the growing reliance on automated and AI-powered attacks. Organizations worldwide, especially in sectors like retail and consumer services, will need to prepare for an increasingly sophisticated and fragmented ransomware threat environment.
References:
Reported By: cyberpress.org
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