DragonForce is a ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) group first identified in late 2023. Originally linked to hacktivist activity, the group pivoted to financially motivated operations by early 2024. Since then, it has accelerated into a highly organized cartel-like network, providing customizable payloads to affiliates, a sophisticated affiliate portal, and shared infrastructure for leak sites and campaigns. The group has targeted a wide range of sectors globally, including major UK retailers such as M&S, Harrods, and Co-op, along with organizations in government, logistics, and manufacturing. Its operations are known for strategic branding flexibility, enabling affiliates to operate under their own labels using DragonForce’s backend services.