DragonForce Targets Saudi Real Estate Giant: Resecurity Report

US-based cybersecurity firm Resecurity has revealed that the notorious DragonForce ransomware group has targeted a prominent real estate and construction company in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

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This attack marks the first time the group has successfully breached a large enterprise in the Kingdom, exfiltrating over 6 terabytes of sensitive data.

The incident underscores the growing threat of ransomware attacks in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, particularly against critical infrastructure and major corporations.

A Calculated Attack: Timing and Tactics

The DragonForce ransomware gang announced the attack on February 14, 2025, setting a ransom deadline just one day before the start of Ramadan on February 28, 2025. This strategic timing suggests the group is well-versed in leveraging cultural and religious events to pressure victims into paying ransoms.

READ FULL REPORT: DragonForce Ransomware Group is Targeting Saudi Arabia

When the deadline passed without payment, DragonForce published the stolen data, which included confidential internal documents and client information. The group created a dedicated URL for the leak, separate from its official Data Leak Site (DLS), showcasing its sophisticated operational capabilities.

Why Real Estate and Construction?

The real estate and construction sectors in Saudi Arabia have become prime targets for cybercriminals. Here’s why:

1. Economic Significance: Construction is a key driver of Saudi Arabia’s non-oil economy, with multi-billion-dollar infrastructure projects underway.

2. Complex IT Infrastructure: These companies often operate large, interconnected systems with numerous third-party vendors, creating a vast attack surface.

3. Valuable Data: Real estate firms hold sensitive information, including client details, financial records, and property data, making them lucrative targets.

A successful ransomware attack can disrupt critical operations, halt construction projects, and cause significant financial and reputational damage.

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DragonForce’s Advanced Tactics and Tools

DragonForce has distinguished itself with its advanced techniques and operational ruthlessness. Key features of the group’s operations include:

Customized CAPTCHA and Data Leak Sites

The group employs a customized CAPTCHA mechanism to prevent automated indexing by cybersecurity platforms, making it harder for researchers to track their activities. DragonForce also operates two TOR-based Data Leak Sites (DLS), where stolen data is published.

Affiliate Network and Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS)

DragonForce operates on a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) model, offering affiliates up to 80% of ransom payments. The group recruits affiliates through underground forums like RAMP, vetting newcomers rigorously to ensure their credibility.

Advanced Payload Builder

The group’s payload builder is one of the most sophisticated on the Dark Web, allowing affiliates to customize encryption settings, file extensions, and network configurations. The builder supports multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux, and ESXi, making it versatile and highly effective.

Unconventional Pressure Tactics

DragonForce has been known to publish audio recordings of ransom negotiations on its Dark Web site, intensifying pressure on victims to comply with demands.

The Broader Threat to the MENA Region

Resecurity warns that DragonForce’s success in Saudi Arabia could embolden the group to expand its operations across the MENA region and beyond. The attack serves as a wake-up call for local law enforcement and the cybersecurity community to bolster defenses against such threats.

How DragonForce Operates

Initial Access

The group typically gains access through phishing emails or by exploiting vulnerabilities in Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) and Virtual Private Network (VPN) solutions.

Data Exfiltration and Encryption

Once inside the network, DragonForce uses advanced encryption algorithms to lock critical systems and data. The group also leverages legitimate tools like SFTP and MEGA clients for data exfiltration, making detection extremely challenging.

Communication and Ransom Collection

DragonForce uses TOR-based instant messaging (TOX) to communicate with victims and provides a private chat mechanism for non-tech-savvy users. Ransom payments are collected via Bitcoin wallets, with affiliates receiving a significant share of the proceeds.

A Growing Threat Landscape

The DragonForce ransomware group is part of a broader trend of increasingly sophisticated cyber threats targeting critical sectors worldwide. Its operational ruthlessness, advanced tools, and lucrative affiliate model make it one of the most dangerous ransomware groups active today.

What Can Organizations Do?

To protect against ransomware attacks, organizations should:

• Regularly update and patch software to address vulnerabilities.

• Implement robust email security measures to prevent phishing attacks.

• Conduct regular employee training on cybersecurity best practices.

• Use advanced threat detection and response tools to identify and mitigate risks.

• Develop and test incident response plans to ensure swift action in the event of aanattack.

The DragonForce ransomware attack on a Saudi Arabian real estate giant highlights the evolving nature of cyber threats in the MENA region. As ransomware groups continue to refine their tactics and expand their reach, organizations must prioritize cybersecurity to safeguard their operations, data, and reputation. The incident serves as a stark reminder that no sector is immune to cybercrime, and proactive measures are essential to stay ahead of these relentless adversaries.