DragonForce, a notorious ransomware group, is shaking up the cybercrime world with its innovative approach to extortion. Drawing inspiration from drug cartels, DragonForce has introduced a groundbreaking cartel-style business model that is reshaping the landscape of ransomware operations.
Evolution of DragonForce
Since its emergence in August 2023, DragonForce has continuously evolved, adapting to the changing cybersecurity environment. The group’s latest development involves offering its ransomware as a service (RaaS), which can now be white-labeled and rebranded by affiliates. This new affiliate model allows other cybercriminals to leverage DragonForce’s sophisticated infrastructure and malware while conducting attacks under their own branding.
RaaS: Democratizing Malware
The rise of Ransomware as a Service signifies a democratization of malware operations. Similar to how artificial intelligence has revolutionized various industries, RaaS empowers less technically proficient threat actors to launch ransomware attacks with unprecedented ease. By providing affiliates with access to essential tools such as encryption services, negotiation platforms, and leak sites on the dark web, DragonForce is lowering the barriers to entry into the lucrative world of cyber extortion.
Expert cybersecurity researchers at Secureworks have highlighted the implications of these developments. In an underground post dated March 2025, DragonForce officially rebranded itself as a “cartel,” signaling a shift towards a distributed operational model that fosters collaboration between different ransomware groups.
Anubis Enters the Arena
Joining the ranks of disruptive players in the ransomware ecosystem is Anubis, a newer group that launched its own affiliate program in December 2024. Offering affiliates an attractive revenue-sharing model where they retain 80% of collected ransoms, Anubis is poised to challenge established players like DragonForce in this rapidly evolving space.
The expansion of affiliate schemes within the ransomware landscape underscores a broader trend towards commercialization and specialization among cybercriminal networks. These models not only make ransomware more accessible but also offer operational efficiencies that appeal to aspiring threat actors seeking financial gain.
Fighting Back Against Cyber Extortion
As organizations grapple with escalating cybersecurity threats, it becomes imperative for them to adopt robust defensive measures against ransomware attacks. Strategies such as regular system patching, implementing multi-factor authentication protocols, maintaining secure backups, and monitoring network activity for anomalies are crucial steps in mitigating risk and safeguarding sensitive data from malicious actors.
In conclusion, the evolution of ransomware into sophisticated business ventures like DragonForce’s cartel-inspired model represents a paradigm shift in cybercrime strategies. As threat actors continue to innovate and collaborate within this shadowy domain, cybersecurity professionals must remain vigilant and proactive in defending against evolving threats posed by modern-day digital extortionists.
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